Ensuring a secure Internet of Things (IoT) network is crucial for protecting your business. But how do you build a secure IoT environment? Online security vulnerabilities are far more common than hardware breaches, making them the top priority to address.
A reliable and secure software update process is vital for safeguarding your devices and systems. Equally important is controlling who has access to network devices and implementing proper network segmentation to reduce risks.
We understand this can seem overwhelming, which is why we’ve created a step-by-step guide to simplify the process and help you build a secure IoT network with confidence.
Regular updates: A key to preventing IoT vulnerabilities
Keeping IoT devices up-to-date is crucial for minimizing vulnerabilities and ensuring network security. However, not all update strategies are created equal. Some are simple and low-maintenance, while others are more complex and can leave your network exposed if not implemented effectively. To choose the right update approach, it’s essential to evaluate the type of software updates needed and determine the optimal timing for deployment.
Software updates
IoT software updates come in various forms, including over-the-air (OTA) updates, firmware upgrades, and cloud-based updates. OTA updates are a popular and efficient method for delivering changes to a large number of connected devices. However, they can present challenges such as bandwidth limitations and unstable internet connections, which can hinder their effectiveness.
Firmware updates
Firmware updates are critical for addressing security flaws and enhancing device functionality. Yet, if not executed properly, they can introduce vulnerabilities. One way to secure the firmware update process is by using digital signatures, which protect against attacks like man-in-the-middle exploits.
Firmware updates also play a pivotal role in the lifecycle management of IoT devices, allowing you to address vulnerabilities even if the manufacturer goes out of business or discontinues the product. A well-executed firmware update ensures devices continue operating smoothly in various scenarios.
A Note on update delivery methods
While updates can be downloaded directly from a server, this approach isn’t always the most secure or efficient in terms of network architecture. Centralized update platforms often provide a better solution, enabling seamless delivery of updates to all smart devices within the same network. Providers can also leverage reusable cloud services, which offer tailored solutions for managing updates across diverse devices.
By adopting the right update strategies and tools, you can significantly reduce IoT vulnerabilities while ensuring the longevity and security of your connected devices.
Testing IoT systems for security and performance
To maximize the effectiveness of your IoT software and hardware updates, rigorous testing is essential. By trialing a small selection of devices, you can uncover vulnerabilities and determine the specific updates required to enhance security. This approach is especially critical when upgrading a large fleet of devices or addressing potential flaws in the technology.
Software testing
The best way to evaluate an IoT device’s software updates is by deploying a controlled group of smart devices with identical software, system configurations, and bandwidth. This method allows you to measure the update’s performance and identify the features necessary for optimal device functionality. Testing on a small scale also helps develop best practices for secure and efficient updates, streamlining the process for broader deployments.
If you’re managing multiple IoT devices with varying features, consider implementing a scalable update solution, like a software provisioning service. This enables seamless updates and rollbacks across all devices while conserving bandwidth and power resources.
Hardware testing
Hardware plays a critical role in IoT security, especially for devices deployed in challenging environments. Many smart devices, particularly gateways, require robust enclosures to ensure reliability and protection. However, understanding what to prioritize when selecting hardware can be confusing. Here’s a quick checklist to guide you:
- IP67 certification: Essential for outdoor deployments.
- Rugged enclosures: Protect against harsh environments.
- Battery durability: Ensures long-lasting performance.
- Backhaul options: Consider ETH, 3G, and 4G connectivity to suit your ecosystem.
- Built-in filtering: Helps prevent interference.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, it highlights the most critical aspects of building a secure IoT network. At our company, we ensure all hardware meets stringent security standards.
Example: KONA Macro IoT gateway
Our KONA Macro IoT Gateway exemplifies secure and versatile hardware. Designed for mid-sized outdoor deployments, it features IP67 certification, robust battery life, and compliance with B-class gateway standards. It integrates seamlessly into any IoT ecosystem, offering ETH, 3G, and 4G backhaul options for flexible connectivity.
Additionally, KONA Macro includes lightning protection and an embedded RF cavity filter, allowing it to operate without interference near paging and cellular radios. All data is encrypted during transmission, ensuring sensitive information remains secure.
Secure your network with reliable devices and routers
Ensuring the security of your networking devices and routers is a vital step in safeguarding your IoT network. By implementing the right security measures, you can protect both your network and connected devices from potential threats. While some of these steps apply broadly to all smart devices, others are specifically tailored to IoT systems. Taking the time to understand and implement these measures will help you maintain a safe and reliable home network.
A key security practice is enabling a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN creates a secure, encrypted “tunnel” between your devices and your local network, making it significantly harder for unauthorized users to intercept your data. Additionally, you can configure IoT devices to utilize the VPN for streaming media or set up a separate guest network for visitors, ensuring they can access the Internet without compromising your primary network’s security.
By prioritizing these steps, you’ll not only enhance your network’s defenses but also create a safer environment for your IoT devices to operate seamlessly.
Evaluate device manufacturers in the market
It’s essential to research the security practices of device manufacturers. Some companies recommend regular updates to their devices, while others go a step further by providing automatic firmware updates. Regardless of the approach, ensure you review your device manufacturer’s policies to confirm you’re receiving the highest level of security for your IoT architecture.
Secure your entry points
Securing smart devices is a shared responsibility between users and manufacturers. Users can protect their devices by changing default passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, using password managers, and setting devices to lock after inactivity. Adding a VPN and upgrading to a modern router also improves security.
Proper identity management, including authentication and encryption, is key to preventing hacks and protecting sensitive data. Taking these steps helps reduce vulnerabilities and safeguard your information.