With all the smart devices we wear, have in our homes, and use every single day, from cars to homes, smart fridges and phones, we will soon be able to connect them with technology. The future holds many more advancements, and this may include being able to control almost everything in our lives, in the everchanging ways we work, live, travel, etc. with a touch of a few small buttons.
The number of internet-connected devices around the world is estimated to be around 29 billion devices by the end of 2022, and an estimated almost 40 billion by 2025. The number of devices will only continue to increase with the constant growth in personal devices and continuous use of technology. With numbers that large, companies are now looking for various security methods that will allow them to protect and secure their devices from outside threats of cyber-attacks.
One of Tec's specializations in the industry includes planning for and designing the recommended building systems to support the latest security and technology features. The following information may benefit the needs of our Northeast Ohio clients in adopting more efficient security practices.
The Importance of IIoT Security
As mentioned above, the importance of navigating security design and IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) is growing in the building industry.
According to Trend Micro, "The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the extension and use of the internet of things (IoT) devices networked together with computers industrial sectors and applications. The IIoT encompasses industrial applications, including robotics, medical devices, and software-defined production processes."
As IIoT becomes more valuable and common, more devices will be connected, and keeping them each safe and secure is a challenge. The hardware, software, and connectivity of each object needs security to correctly work. Because these items are all connected to the internet and most aren't designed with built-in security features, they could become targets because the threat of remote hacking is increased.
With this thought in mind, the IIoT design of a company should primarily begin with incorporating various types of IoT security into their initial designing processes.
Resources for Securing Devices and Accessing Funding
The Readiness Assessment was developed with the intention of being a tool that helps companies evaluate their digital maturity and readiness for IIoT implementation.
There are a few Cluster Manufacturing Roadmaps that are available for those located in the Northeast Ohio region that will help create an IIoT strategy with visions and goals and implement a plan of action. View them here to see how your company can promote the awareness and benefits of making an IIoT action plan to secure your technology and promote safety.
For companies or small businesses that may need additional assistance to attain these credentials, they have the option to apply for the Tech Cred Grant and access funding to give them the means to update credentials of their workforce.
* This year's grant application window closes on May 31st, 2022 at 3pm. To register as a new supplier to fill out the application, visit here and follow the instructions to receive your State of Ohio Supplier ID number needed for the Grant portal.