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The importance of secure remote access for OT assets
Secure remote access is crucial for managing, configuring and troubleshooting Operational Technology (OT) assets without requiring costly and time-consuming physical visits. However, implementing secure remote access on a large scale can be challenging, especially when sites are dispersed and assets are located behind network boundaries. Setting firewall rules and using dedicated gateway hardware also puts additional pressure on both IT and OT teams.
Cisco Secure Equipment Access (SEA)
To address these challenges, Cisco Secure Equipment Access (SEA) offers a solution. SEA combines the benefits of Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) with a network architecture that enables easy large-scale deployment in operational environments. This eliminates the need for separate hardware and complex firewall rules. Cisco industrial switches or routers now provide secure remote access, including advanced cybersecurity controls and simple policy applications.
Benefits of Cisco Secure Equipment Access
- Increased Operational Efficiency: Easy remote access to OT assets, even behind network boundaries.
- Easy Installation and Scalability: No hassle with extra equipment or complex firewall configurations. SEA is built into switches and routers.
- Minimum Privileges: Selected users can access specific devices at set times.
- Strong Security Controls: Multi-factor authentication and single sign-on (SSO), asset detection, and monitoring of active sessions.
- Take-back of Control: Sessions can be recorded for research and regulatory compliance purposes. Active sessions can be managed and terminated.
Cisco Secure Equipment Access's ZTNA architecture
Improved accessibility and security
SEA provides scalable, zero-trust remote access to OT assets, designed for operational workflows. ZTNA gateway functionality can be distributed anywhere in the network, allowing access to any asset regardless of IP address or NAT strategy. The switch or router connecting assets now also provides secure remote access and can enforce micro-segmentation policies to prevent lateral movement. Cisco SEA increases the productivity of operational teams and strengthens security.
Ready for the future?
Want to get started with Cisco Secure Eqipment Access? Get in touch with the Cisco specialists at WETEC Enterprise IT.
