COURSE OVERVIEW

 

The use of interconnected microprocessors in industrial systems has grown exponentially over the past decade. Deployed for process control in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) for many years, they have now moved into Intelligent Electronic Devices (IED) in applications such as substations, Motor Control Centers (MCC), and heat trace systems. The concern is that their connecting networks have grown as well, usually without much attention to the security ramifications.  Intrusions, intentional and unintentional, can cause safety, environmental, production and quality problems. 

 

The need for protecting Industrial Control Systems has grown significantly over the last few years. The combination of open systems; an increase in joint ventures; alliance partners and outsourced services; growth in intelligent manufacturing equipment; increased connectivity to other equipment/software; enhanced external connectivity; along with rapidly increasing incidents of network intrusion, more intelligent hackers, and malicious software, all lead to increased threats and probability of attack. As these threats and vulnerabilities increase, so does the need for protection of Industrial and Control Systems. 

This course introduces several categories of electronic security technologies and discusses specific types of applications within each category, the vulnerabilities addressed by each type, suggestions for deployment, and known strengths and weaknesses, as well as some forms of mitigation for the mentioned risks. 

 

The course provides participants with practical methods for evaluation and assessment of many current types of electronic security technologies and tools that apply to the Industrial Control Systems environment, including development, implementation, operations, maintenance, engineering and other user services. It provides guidance to manufacturers, vendors, and security practitioners at end-user companies on the technological options for securing these systems against electronic (cyber) attack.