Imagine if someone told you in the early 2000s that entire industries would run almost by themselves, thanks to a network of connected devices. Today, this is no longer science fiction but our reality, thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT). By 2030, it’s expected that there will be over 29 billion IoT devices globally. These devices are transforming critical infrastructure like power grids, water systems, transportation networks, factories, military bases, and airports, making them more efficient and reliable.
How IoT is Changing Critical Infrastructure
IoT is revolutionising how we manage and operate our critical infrastructure. These devices allow for real-time data collection, remote monitoring, and automation. This means that systems can run more smoothly, costs can be reduced, and services can be more reliable. However, setting up these networks over large areas isn’t easy. It requires substantial investment and upgrades to existing infrastructure.
The Cybersecurity Challenge
With so many devices connected, the security risks increase. Many IoT devices don’t have strong security features, making them easy targets for hackers. Here are some specific concerns:
1. Unauthorised Access: Many devices come with default passwords that are easy to guess, making them vulnerable to attacks.
2. Data Breaches: If data isn’t encrypted, it can be intercepted and misused.
3. Denial of Service (DoS): Networks can be overwhelmed by excessive traffic, causing disruptions.
4. Software Vulnerabilities: Outdated software can have security gaps that hackers can exploit.
Because these devices are interconnected, a breach in one can potentially compromise the entire network, causing widespread issues.
To protect against these threats, a multi-layered security approach is essential. Actelis Networks, a company specialising in secure networking solutions, uses a strategy called "Triple Shield." This includes encrypting data, breaking it into fragments, and scrambling it, making it extremely difficult for hackers to access and exploit the information.
Actelis’ strong security measures have earned it a spot on the U.S. Department of Defense’s approved products list. Recently, they secured contracts to upgrade the networks at three U.S. military bases, reflecting the growing investment in cybersecurity amid increasing cyber threats.
While security is crucial, ensuring that IoT devices can communicate without interruptions is also important. Actelis' hybrid-fibre technology uses existing network infrastructure, combining fibre, coax, and legacy copper wiring. This allows for high-speed connectivity without the need for extensive new construction, reducing costs and deployment time.
Actelis’ technology uses Ethernet access switches and extenders to achieve gigabit speeds over various types of wiring. This not only enhances connectivity but also supports the efficient operation of sensors and cameras essential for real-time monitoring and control.
The Future of IoT in Critical Infrastructure
As IoT continues to evolve, innovative network designs will play a key role in addressing the challenges of speed, maintenance, and security. Actelis’ hybrid-fiber technology and multi-layered security approach show how we can achieve these goals, ensuring that technological advancements contribute to a safer and more efficient future.
The integration of IoT in critical infrastructure is a dynamic and evolving field. By addressing both connectivity and security challenges, companies like Actelis Networks are helping build a more resilient and advanced infrastructure that can withstand the complexities of the modern digital landscape.
