Modernizing Critical Infrastructure Networks
A major electric utility operated legacy flat networks across its substation infrastructure, creating elevated risk of lateral movement by cyber threats. Increasing regulatory pressure required the utility to adopt modern defense-in-depth and zone-based security architectures without disrupting critical power operations.
Infrastructure Challenge
Flat substation networks exposed critical systems to unnecessary risk and limited the utility’s ability to meet evolving regulatory and security expectations. The challenge was to modernize network architecture while preserving operational reliability and safety.
Strategic Network Transformation
Our team of engineers assessed existing substation network topologies and identified critical system zones requiring protection. We designed a comprehensive segmentation strategy using firewalls, VLANs, and intrusion detection systems, aligned with the IEC 62443 zones and conduits model for industrial networks.
Security Architecture Deliverables
- Segmentation Design Package: Detailed zoning diagrams and security policy definitions for each substation
- Implementation Guide: Firewall rulesets, VLAN assignments, and IDS placement strategies
- Operational Playbook: Practical reference for operations, security, and compliance teams
This transformation significantly reduced cyber risk, strengthened the utility’s security posture, and established a scalable foundation for ongoing compliance and threat protection—without impacting critical grid operations.
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