CyberArk, Device Authority, and Microsoft have joined forces to deliver a Zero Trust-based security solution that strengthens connected device authentication for enterprise applications. This initiative addresses the rising cyber risks in manufacturing, where Industrial IoT and Operational Technology systems are becoming increasingly interconnected. The collaboration aligns with the NIST IoT security framework, introduced in May 2024, ensuring secure device onboarding, continuous management, and threat monitoring. The solution helps manufacturers mitigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities in factory floors and edge environments, where high device density and intermittent monitoring create security challenges.
The Growing Need for IoT Security in Manufacturing
1. Digital Transformation and Cyber Risks
- The manufacturing sector is rapidly adopting IoT and OT technologies to optimize efficiency.
- However, each connected device introduces potential attack surfaces, increasing cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
- Cyber threats targeting edge environments are growing due to decentralized networks and high device density.
2. NIST IoT Security Framework
- The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released an IoT reference architecture in May 2024.
- This framework focuses on secure onboarding, identity management, and continuous threat monitoring.
- The collaboration between CyberArk, Device Authority, and Microsoft translates these guidelines into practical security solutions.
Solution Architecture: Capabilities
1. Microsoft’s Role in Secure Device Management
- Microsoft Azure IoT & Defender for IoT provide:
- Scalable device security across cloud and edge environments.
- Real-time monitoring for detecting anomalies and threats.
- Protection for air-gapped environments, ensuring continuous security in isolated networks.
2. CyberArk’s Privileged Access Management
- Enforces strict access control for both users and devices.
- Prevents unauthorized access to critical manufacturing systems.
- Reduces reliance on manual security processes, minimizing errors and human intervention risks.
3. Device Authority’s Automated Device Security
- Automates secure device onboarding, identity credentialing, and encryption.
- Enhances data integrity by reducing manual security configurations.
- Accelerates incident response to security threats in high-density IoT environments.
Industry Perspectives on IoT Security Challenges
1. Edge Security Challenges in Manufacturing
Darron Antill, CEO, Device Authority:
2. NIST Compliance and Identity Protection
Clarence Hinton, Chief Strategy Officer, CyberArk:
“No single solution can address all security challenges manufacturers face. Our collaboration helps implement NIST best practices while extending privileged access controls across the full identity spectrum.”
3. Comprehensive IoT Security for Enterprises
Dayan Rodriguez, VP, Manufacturing & Mobility, Microsoft:
The joint initiative by CyberArk, Device Authority, and Microsoft provides manufacturers with a holistic, Zero Trust security solution for IoT and OT environments. By leveraging privileged access management, automated device security, and cloud-based monitoring, enterprises can protect operations from cyber threats while ensuring regulatory compliance.
