Secure the host

Given the sensitive nature of industrial controls, it is important to secure not only the ICS software, but also:

• the host on which the ICS software runs

• the network to which the ICS software is connected

• the hardware used for the ICS software

  Note: The "host" is the Windows computer or Windows Embedded device on which your ICS software is installed and running.

There are several factors to consider for securing the host including:

• Access to the host

• Keeping track of and applying the latest operating system (Windows, Linux, mobile device) updates

• Keeping the host computer free of viruses and malware

• Protecting the applications and content on the host

Each of these factors is covered in the following sections.