Process control networks and communications between devices provide determined hackers with an expansive attack surface from which to infiltrate industrial processes and assets. On their own, traditional antivirus solutions don't sufficiently protect industrial networks.

While no single mitigation strategy is guaranteed to prevent cyber security incidents, the Australian Signals Directorate recommends organizations to implement eight essential mitigation strategies as a baseline. This baseline, known as the Essential Eight and makes it much harder for hackers to get into your process control system. Application Whitelisting tops the list as the no #1 mitigation strategy to help prevent the execution of unapproved or malicious programs including .exe, DLL, Windows Script Host, PowerShell, HTA and installers.

Honeywell, together with security specialist Carbon Black, has introduced Honeywell Application Whitelisting (AWL), an endpoint security solution that protects critical infrastructure from unauthorized applications such as malware, ransomware and next-gen attacks. The US Department of Homeland Security says that AWL is: "a key part of an effective layered defense."

Designed to work alongside antivirus software, Honeywell AWL uses whitelisting to separate legitimate network activity from applications and technologies that can interfere with plant operations. Users simply specify which activities are allowed, and Honeywell AWL denies anything else. By giving users clear visibility and control over their networks, Honeywell AWL helps prevent zero-day and targeted attacks, as well as endpoint malware infiltration.

Key benefits

• Network-wide visibility and default-deny capabilities
• Reduces the risk of malware, ransomware, and zero-day attacks
• Adds a defense-in-depth layer to industrial applications for granular whitelisting control
• Does not require signature updates 
• Tested and qualified for Honeywell EPKS and advanced applications
• Complies with rigorous NIST safety requirements
• Backed by 24x7 global support from Honeywell

Why Honeywell for industrial cyber security?

• 50+ years of industrial domain knowledge and expertise
• 15+ years of industrial cybersecurity leadership underpinned by 250+ dedicated cyber experts, thousands of successful multi-vendor installations and 400+ Managed Security Service sites around the world
• Three global Industrial Cyber Security Labs delivering continuous innovation