Embedded systems cybersecurity is necessary because each of the components of embedded system architecture creates an attack surface, from the firmware and embedded operating system (OS) to middleware and user applications.
The embedded system OS, a foundational piece of embedded systems security, plays the leading role as the backbone of security for an embedded system.
Two types of security apply to embedded systems: physical security and software security.
Physical security, such as locked doors and surveillance cameras, keeps an unauthorized person present on location from accessing an embedded system, physically damaging it or stealing it.
Physical security limits access to sensitive areas and equipment. Physical security may also include attributes of a device itself, including immutable memory technology, such as eFuses to store secure bootloader keys, tamper-resistant memory, protected key stores and security enclaves to protect sensitive code and data.
Software security manages and responds to malicious behavior happening in the system, both during the initialization process and during run time. Software security features include authentication of a device to a network, firewalling network traffic and stringent hardening of system software to name a few.
Embedded systems cybersecurity is crucial because many embedded systems perform mission-critical or safety-critical functions vital to a system’s intended function and surrounding environment.
Embedded systems security is relevant to all industries, from aerospace and defense to household appliances. Modern embedded systems are now interconnected by the Internet of Things (IoT), which creates additional attack vectors.
Want to learn more? Tonex offers Advanced Embedded Systems Cybersecurity, a 2-day course that provides a unique learning to explore vulnerabilities in embedded systems that are commonly exploited.
Participants will learn about key concepts, techniques, tools, risk assessment and management and strategies for integrating cybersecurity mitigation and measures into products and systems. Learn the best practices to integrate cybersecurity into ConOps, requirements, architecture & design, implementation, verification & validation, and operations & maintenance processes.
For more information, questions, comments, contact us.