In the ever-evolving industrial landscape, businesses strive to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and boost profitability. At NetFoundry, we tackle these challenges with a unified approach to zero trust connectivity. I’m excited to share insights from our latest white paper, “Unified Namespace and Secure Connectivity: Transforming Industrial Data Management.” Here’s a summary of key points and why this paper is essential if you’re serious about revolutionizing your industrial data management strategy and putting a Unified Namespace Architecture in place.
Understanding Unified Namespace (UNS)
A Unified Namespace (UNS) is a modern concept extending the ANSI/ISA-95 Equipment Hierarchy Model beyond traditional boundaries to cover the entire enterprise. It provides a unified architecture for real-time data collection and distribution, empowering businesses with faster, data-driven decisions. However, none of this is possible without secure, reliable connectivity—where NetFoundry’s Ziti platform comes in. It enables the seamless and secure data flow critical for successful UNS implementations while adhering to IEC 62443 standards.
The Need for an Overlay Network in UNS Architectures
UNS implementations gather and distribute data across diverse systems, which can be complex. While protocols like Sparkplug B and OPC UA help standardize data formats, they don’t provide the necessary connectivity to integrate these systems effectively. That’s where NetFoundry’s Ziti platform proves invaluable. It offers flexibility, security, and scalability, allowing rapid, secure integration regardless of the underlying network architecture. It’s a compliant solution that meets the stringent requirements of modern industrial settings.
Benefits of Implementing UNS
UNS offers significant advantages, such as better data utilization, informed decision-making, scalable operations, and simplified workflows. With a consistent data approach, organizations can streamline processes, ensure security policy compliance, and reduce integration costs. Although traditionally challenging in OT environments due to stringent safety requirements, these benefits are attainable with the right solution—like Ziti—enabling UNS implementations that enhance efficiency and profitability.
Addressing Network Friction with Virtual Conduits
The Purdue model has long guided industrial networking but poses challenges when integrating edge devices. IEC 62443’s introduction of virtual conduits, which securely connect zones across network layers, mitigates these challenges. With Ziti, deploying these conduits is simplified, enabling compliant and efficient data flow, regardless of network segmentation. This ensures that UNS implementations meet both security and operational demands.
The Critical Importance of Securing UNS
Traditionally, OT environments prioritize safety and availability over data integrity. However, today’s cyber threats demand a balanced focus on integrity and confidentiality to maintain safety. Our white paper explores real-world threats like Stuxnet, illustrating the consequences of data integrity attacks. Implementing a robust zero trust architecture, like Ziti’s, is essential for protecting UNS and maintaining operational security.
Ziti: The Enabler of UNS and Beyond
Ziti is the backbone of NetFoundry’s secure connectivity solutions, offering dynamic, policy-driven connectivity essential for UNS. With various deployment models—SDKs, prebuilt software, or Edge Routers—businesses can deploy secure UNS systems tailored to their needs. Ziti’s policy-driven approach allows for quick configuration adjustments, ensuring security is up-to-date without manual effort.
Building the Future of Industry 4.0 Securely
The right UNS architecture is integral to the Industry 4.0 movement, enabling businesses to monitor and manage processes efficiently. However, implementing such systems in OT environments can be challenging due to strict safety and availability requirements. Ziti’s flexibility and compliance with standards like ANSI/IEC 62443 allow businesses to implement UNS securely and efficiently, protecting operations while enhancing productivity.
Dive Deeper with Our White Paper
Our white paper, “Unified Namespace and Secure Connectivity: Transforming Industrial Data Management,” provides a detailed look at how UNS and Ziti overcome industrial data management challenges. It includes case studies, best practices, and insights on how Ziti supports agile, secure, and scalable UNS implementations.
If you’re aiming to integrate your industrial data securely and effectively, this white paper is for you. Download it today and see how NetFoundry can transform your industrial data management strategy.
Read the white paper here and start your journey to a more efficient, secure, and connected operation.
Let’s lead the way in building secure, resilient systems for the future of Industry 4.0. I’m eager to hear your feedback as we advance together.