Certified Secure Serial Connectivity for Industrial Networks

As industrial systems continue to integrate legacy equipment into connected environments, securing serial communication has become a critical requirement for operational technology networks. In this context, Moxa has introduced the NPort 6000-G2 series, the first serial device server certified to IEC 62443-4-2 Security Level 2 under the IECEE CB Scheme.

Securing legacy serial devices in modern OT environments
Serial field devices based on protocols such as RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 remain widely used in industrial automation, including applications involving PLCs, measurement systems, and console interfaces. These technologies were originally designed for reliability and interoperability rather than cybersecurity.

With the increasing convergence of IT and OT systems, these devices are now exposed to network-based threats. This creates a requirement for solutions that can secure existing infrastructure without requiring full system replacement.

Certification aligned with industrial cybersecurity standards
The NPort 6000-G2 series has been certified according to IEC 62443-4-2 Security Level 2 within the IECEE CB Scheme, confirming compliance with defined technical security requirements for industrial automation and control system components.

The certification was validated by Bureau Veritas, indicating that the device meets criteria related to secure communication, access control, and system integrity. Such certification frameworks are increasingly used to standardize cybersecurity practices across industrial systems.

Extending protection across the automation architecture
The NPort 6000-G2 series functions as a gateway for field-level assets, enabling secure integration of legacy devices into networked environments. This supports extended lifecycle use of existing infrastructure while aligning with stricter cybersecurity requirements.

The solution is part of a broader defense-in-depth strategy across the automation pyramid. While the NPort series addresses field-level connectivity, other product lines such as the EDS-G4000 and EDR-G9010 focus on network segmentation and traffic protection, and industrial computers in the UC series provide secure platforms for data processing and system integration.

Integrated security functions for industrial deployment
The device incorporates a secure-by-design architecture with features such as role-based authentication, incident visibility, and protection of data streams. It supports integration into enterprise security frameworks, including centralized authentication systems and remote logging for monitoring purposes.

A web-based serial traffic monitoring function enables troubleshooting of both serial and Ethernet communication without additional tools, allowing faster identification of network issues at the port level.

Supporting long-term use of serial infrastructure
By combining cybersecurity mechanisms with support for existing serial protocols, the NPort 6000-G2 series allows operators to maintain legacy systems while improving security posture.

This approach addresses a key challenge in industrial environments, where replacing installed equipment is often impractical. Instead, secure connectivity solutions enable gradual modernization while maintaining operational continuity within the broader digital supply chain.

Edited by Aishwarya Mambet, Induportals Editor, with AI assistance.

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