Simple protection against unauthorized access

Security Simple protection against unauthorized access

2024-06-27 Source: Press release Pilz | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

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Pilz Industrieelektronik GmbH

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The new operating element PIT oe ETH from Pilz has an activatable Ethernet port, thereby protecting freely accessible Ethernet interfaces in the industry from unauthorized access.

The new operating element PIT oe ETH with activatable Ethernet port from Pilz protects network connections like a firewall against unauthorized access from outside and inside. PIToe ETH supplements the Pilz portfolio in the area of operating and signaling devices.(Image: Pilz GmbH & Co. KG) — The new operating element PIT oe ETH with activatable Ethernet port from Pilz protects network connections like a firewall against unauthorized access from outside and inside. PIToe ETH supplements the Pilz portfolio in the area of operating and signaling devices.
(Image: Pilz GmbH & Co. KG)

In plants and machines, PIToe ETH protects the network and thus know-how and investment. The new activate-able and switch-off-able Ethernet interface offers users the possibility to comprehensively protect their network: who can access sensitive machine data when and how can be individually and securely controlled and traced. This increases production safety.

Access only for authorized users

In combination with the PITreader reading unit from Pilz, activation of the Ethernet interface only occurs with appropriate authorization: only authorized persons are entitled to temporarily use these interfaces, for example to create new configurations, programs or backup copies. Thanks to standard inputs with 24 volts or alternatively with 5 volts, they can be activated flexibly via any control output. This allows users to maintain comprehensive data flow control over their networks.

The new operating element PIToe ETH meets both the safety requirements for machine manufacturers and operators: The Machinery Directive obliges machine manufacturers to take security measures no later than January 2027.

Implement legal and normative requirements

For machine operators in Germany, for example, the Technical Rule for Operational Safety TRBS 1115 is already in effect today as a supplement to the Operational Safety Regulation, which, among other things, requires that unused hardware interfaces be deactivated or blocked and that unauthorized communication connections must be switched off. PIToe ETH thus supports the implementation of legal and normative requirements, ultimately protecting the investment and minimizing costs.

The compact operating elements are designed for installation openings with a diameter of only 22.5 mm with rotation lock according to EN 60947-5-1. This makes them blend perfectly into the design of machines and plants.

Other operating elements for increased security

Users can also use the operating elements PIToe 4S and PIToe USB in the PIToe product range: With the PIToe 4S operating element, digital inputs and outputs can be switched and displayed, for example the operating mode. PIToe USB has an activatable USB interface for machines and systems, which enables manipulation-proof uploading of programs, for example.

The compact operating elements therefore offer advantages for installation or retrofitting in control panels, switchboards, or operator housings. In addition, both ensure secure access management in conjunction with the PITreader access authorization system.

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