Learn how to protect critical infrastructure against cyberattacks

 Eaton Addresses Lifecycle Cybersecurity for Critical Power Infrastructure in Its Latest Report

Protecting critical power infrastructure in buildings has become an urgent concern in an increasingly digitalized world. Eaton, a leading company in energy management and technological solutions, has highlighted this growing need in its report “Lifecycle Cybersecurity: How to Secure a Building's Mission-Critical Power Infrastructure.”

The report emphasizes the importance of integrating cybersecurity throughout the entire lifecycle of systems that manage energy and other critical services in facilities such as hospitals, data centers, and telecommunications networks. With accelerated digitalization and the convergence between operational technologies (OT) and information technologies (IT), systems handling essential functions in buildings—such as lighting, HVAC, fire detection, and security—are becoming increasingly interconnected. This integration improves efficiency but also significantly increases the vulnerability of these systems to cyberattacks.

Risks and Challenges

According to Eaton, the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) has expanded the attack surface, making critical infrastructure attractive targets for cybercriminals. The risks of disruptions to these systems extend beyond financial losses; they can also jeopardize the safety of thousands of people. For example, a failure in power supply or control systems in hospitals could have fatal consequences. The same applies to data centers or telecommunications networks, where service interruptions can affect both businesses and millions of users.

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Strategy

Eaton's approach focuses not only on preventing attacks but also on ensuring that cybersecurity is present from design through to maintenance. Protection throughout the lifecycle is essential to ensure systems are secure from conception and that any vulnerabilities are proactively addressed. Eaton emphasizes the importance of selecting providers who adhere to high security standards and follow internationally recognized frameworks, such as those established by IEC and UL.

Key Points from the Report

• OT-IT Convergence: As OT technologies adopt IT practices such as connectivity and data management, critical systems are more exposed to cyber threats. Companies must ensure that both OT and IT teams work together to maintain infrastructure security.

• Secure Supply Chain: Eaton recommends selecting suppliers that offer products designed with built-in cybersecurity, following the Secure Development Lifecycle (SDLC) to ensure systems are protected from creation. Important standards like IEC 62443 and UL 2900 guide manufacturers in ensuring the integrity of network-connected devices.

• Risk Management and Continuous Monitoring: Cybersecurity strategies must evolve with emerging threats. Eaton suggests maintaining accurate inventories of all connected assets and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to minimize risks. The adoption of a "zero trust" approach is highlighted as essential for protecting critical systems.

• Lifecycle Cybersecurity: Security should be an integral part of a system’s lifecycle, from product selection to continuous monitoring and patch updates. Eaton proposes best practices including knowing which devices are connected, how they are configured, how to recover from incidents, and who is responsible for each system.

Protecting critical infrastructure cannot be a reactive measure; it must be a fundamental part of the strategy for any organization that relies on operational continuity and system security.