Omron and Cisco will collaborate to build a secure environment where PLCs, as core automation components, provide security authentication for three independent elements: people on production floors, devices connected to machines and production lines, and the data exchanged. By integrating Cisco's networking and security technology into Omron's controller technology, both companies will contribute to advancements in production by enabling the secure use of IoT on production floors.
Prior to this technical collaboration, Omron developed the NJ Series Machine Automation Controller, its flagship PLC that includes an OPC UA server as standard and complies with the international standard for security-enabled communications. The new PLC enables secure data communication with OPC UA-compatible software and devices. Furthermore, by
combining Omron's PLCs with Cisco's networking and security technology through this collaboration, the companies will expand the range of solutions available for authenticating people and devices. This collaboration
focuses on the security authentication of people, devices, and data using PLCs.
User authentication:
• PLCs will authenticate user access and grant secure remote access (VPN) only to authorized users, facilitating secure control of PLCs and machines on production floors.
Device authentication:
• PLCs will detect device connections, block unauthorized device access, and issue real-time alerts.
Data authentication:
• PLCs will encrypt communication data and ensure proper data transmission. They will also detect and record unauthorized access and security threats by monitoring and displaying detailed data on the network.
