Switches provide auto-lockdown security capabilities.
Press Release Summary:
DeltaV smart switches incorporate auto-lockdown security capabilities that let user automatically lock/unlock port access of all switches in network; lockdown disables all unused network ports on switch. To prevent accidental and deliberate connection of unauthorized device to switch, products offer one-click lockdown application. DIN rail- and rack-mount versions of these fixed port and modular switches provide Megabit and Gigabit speeds over wired and fiber communications.
Original Press Release:
Emerson Introduces Auto- Lockdown Network Security for the DeltaV(TM) Digital Automation System
New DeltaV smart switches provide easy to use network security
AUSTIN, TEXAS (November 18, 2008) - "Security made easy" is how Emerson Process Management refers to its newest addition to DeltaV(TM) security functionality. Built into the new family of DeltaV smart switches, Emerson has added auto-lockdown security capabilities that allow a DeltaV user to automatically lock and unlock the port access of all the switches in the network. This lockdown will disable all unused network connections (ports) on the switch.
One of the biggest security vulnerabilities in a control system is that network devices, such as Ethernet-based network switches, are located in unsecure locations out in the process -easily accessible to everyone. Locking down switch ports will prevent accidental connection and virtually prevent the deliberate connection of an unauthorized device to the switch.
"The recommended security practice disables unused connections on network devices," says Bob Huba, product manager for DeltaV security, "This is usually done using third party IT software which creates risk of simply not doing it at all or accidentally disabling a used port. Our DeltaV one-click lockdown function makes managing network security much easier. Even a maintenance person can use the utility as part of their troubleshooting work practices."
The one-click lockdown application automatically scans the DeltaV network to find the DeltaV switches and then allows the user the choice to automatically unlock or lock the switches. Unlocking also enables an auto-relock of the switches in 60 minutes if the user does not perform a manual relock before then.
"Our customers tell us that they do not have time to handle these security details," says Duncan Schleiss, vice president of product marketing, Emerson Process Management. "The patent pending, auto-lockdown capability of the DeltaV smart switch delivers the security-out-of-the-box experience they are seeking."
These smart switches are zero configuration, plug-and-play devices in a DeltaV network. They make our system even easier to use and more reliable," continued Duncan. "We have learned from experience that people make mistakes and a mistake in a switch configuration can shut down a plant."
DeltaV switches are available in DIN rail and rack mount versions and in fixed port and modular configurations. They provide Megabit and Gigabit speeds over wired and fiber communications.
Performing a system risk assessment and then implementing the appropriate security practices will allow the user to provide adequate and cost-effective security for the DeltaV system. If further help is required with site-specific DeltaV security, implementation personnel in Emerson's SureService group can be contacted to provide this service.
DeltaV systems are a core component of Emerson's open standards-based PlantWeb® digital plant architecture which substantially reduces project costs, with customers typically saving over 30% on installed costs.
To learn more about Emerson's DeltaV System Security, go to www.EasyDeltaV.com.
About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com), an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the chemical, oil and gas, refining, pulp and paper, power, water and wastewater treatment, mining and metals, food and beverage, life sciences and other industries. The company combines superior products and technology with industry-specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Its brands include PlantWeb®, DeltaV(TM), Fisher®, Micro Motion®, Rosemount, Daniel®, Ovation®, and AMS® Suite.
About Emerson
Emerson (NYSE: EMR), based in St. Louis, Missouri (USA), is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to create innovative solutions for customers through its network power, process management, industrial automation, climate technologies, and appliance and tools businesses. Sales in fiscal 2008 were $24.8 billion. For more information, visit www.Emerson.com.
Contacts:
David Holmes, Emerson Process Management
(512) 418-7536, David.Holmes@Emerson.com
Jerry Moon, Emerson Process Management
(512) 832-3089, Jerry.Moon@Emerson.com
