Cybersecurity for industrial communication is increasingly starting at the level of individual field devices. With the “netRAPID 90IC,” Hilscher offers an embedded communication module that integrates the necessary security mechanisms directly into the device architecture. It is based on the “netX 90” communication controller. The module combines industrial communication protocols with functions for encryption, firmware protection, and the management of digital keys and certificates.
This is intended to enable device manufacturers to address, in particular, the increasing security requirements for networked products. In this context, Hilscher also refers to the European Cyber Resilience Act, which establishes mandatory cybersecurity requirements for products with digital elements.
Cybersecurity for industrial communication embedded in the hardware
To protect communication, the “netRAPID 90IC” features hardware-based encryption using “CryptoCore.” Secure Boot is designed to prevent unauthorized software from running during startup. In addition, the module supports signed firmware as well as key and certificate management. This consolidates multiple security functions directly on the hardware platform. For device manufacturers, this can reduce the effort required to implement such mechanisms separately when developing their own field devices.
“Device manufacturers face growing pressure to combine short development cycles with increasing security requirements,” explains Simon Fischer, Product Manager at Hilscher. “With ,netRAPID 90IC', we provide a communication module that integrates easily, reduces production risks, and prepares devices for future security requirements from the start.”
Plug-in module can be integrated without soldering
In addition to cybersecurity, the development aims to simplify integration into industrial devices. Unlike a permanently soldered design, the module is integrated via a standardized SMT socket. This allows it to be plugged in and replaced as needed. The module measures 18 × 45 millimeters, making it suitable for applications with limited installation space. Hilscher cites drives, welding systems, weighing technology, laser systems, and measuring devices as potential areas of application. The plug-in design is intended to reduce risks during production while also simplifying future service work. The communication function is integrated into the respective device as a standalone module.
Cybersecurity for industrial communication supports multiple protocols
On a single hardware platform, the “netRAPID 90IC” supports various Industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols. These include Profinet, Ethercat, Ethernet/IP, CC-Link IE Field Basic, Profibus, CANopen, and Modbus. Additionally, OPC UA and MQTT are available for connecting to IIoT, IT, and cloud systems. This allows data to be transmitted from the field level without requiring additional gateways or hardware, according to the manufacturer. The combination of various communication standards and integrated security mechanisms is designed to enable device manufacturers to develop different product variants on a common hardware platform.
Cyber Resilience Act increases requirements for networked devices
As industrial components become increasingly networked, cybersecurity for industrial communication is gaining importance, including from a regulatory perspective. The Cyber Resilience Act sets requirements for the security of products with digital elements throughout their lifecycle. Features such as Secure Boot, signed firmware, and the management of keys and certificates can serve as technical building blocks for implementing corresponding security concepts. The “netRAPID 90IC” already integrates these mechanisms at the communication module level.
Hilscher also integrates the module into its existing platform consisting of hardware, software, development tools, and support. Standardized interfaces and existing protocol stacks are designed to reduce the development effort for device manufacturers.
