Cybersecurity is not a state of being, but a process that extends far beyond product development and even beyond product delivery. That is why Beckhoff takes a holistic approach and embeds cybersecurity in clear lines of responsibility, consistent development processes, and long-term support for its product portfolio. In this way, regulatory requirements are connected to a clear commitment: Customers should be able to rely on their automation systems and on Beckhoff as a partner on a lasting basis.
The networking of machines and systems is fundamentally changing the requirements for automation. In addition to performance, openness, and uptime, protection against cyber risks is becoming an increasingly important consideration. Legal requirements such as the EU’s Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) establish a binding framework for this. For Beckhoff, however, cybersecurity is more than just a regulatory requirement: It is part of the company’s responsibility to ensure the long-term security and availability of automation solutions.
Centralized responsibility, decentralized implementation
Beckhoff follows an approach that combines centralized governance with decentralized implementation. This means that the importance of cybersecurity is strategically embedded within the company, while the product divisions incorporate the requirements into their respective development and support processes in a practical manner. The Product Security Incident Response Team (PSIRT) plays a central role in this process. It evaluates security-relevant information, coordinates the handling of reported vulnerabilities, and ensures transparent communication. This creates a structured process that embeds security permanently within the company, rather than treating it as an isolated issue.
Security throughout the entire product life cycle
At Beckhoff, cybersecurity is factored in systematically right from the product development stage and is continuously refined. The processes are based on recognized cybersecurity requirements. This makes security an integral part of the product life cycle: from development and market launch through to long-term support. Regular product updates and new generations of devices with the same form factor enable systems to be upgraded with minimal effort. What’s more, the industrial real-time Ethernet standard EtherCAT – developed by Beckhoff and long since adopted worldwide – already features special cybersecurity capabilities and an integrated security architecture by design.
Of course, special attention should also be paid to the existing portfolio. Beckhoff evaluates products for compliance with regulations such as the EU Machinery Regulation, IEC 62443, and the CRA, improves them as and when needed, and strives to ensure their long-term availability. If a product cannot be further developed from a technical perspective, successor products and recommendations for a smooth transition are available. Discontinuation remains the last resort. This approach ensures reliability: Customers not only receive new products, but can also trust that Beckhoff will continue to focus on the long-term development and security requirements of existing automation solutions.
Transparency creates trust
An effective cybersecurity strategy requires not only processes, but also transparent communication. That is why Beckhoff supports its customers by providing security information, updates, documentation, and practical guides. Security advisories and other information help machine builders and operators assess security-relevant developments early on and respond appropriately. At the same time, Beckhoff contributes its extensive experience to trade associations, standards committees, and initiatives such as CERT@VDE. The goal is to establish practical procedures and standards that are as effective and economically efficient as possible in order to implement cybersecurity and comply with regulations – all with the aim of providing customers with valuable guidance on ensuring cybersecurity while reducing the associated effort.
A partnership for a secure future
Cybersecurity requires constant attention. Beckhoff therefore integrates this topic as an ongoing priority into its organizational structure, product development, and customer support. Rather than simply meeting regulatory requirements, they are translated into sustainable processes. For customers, this means that Beckhoff brings together technological innovation, transparency, long-term product responsibility, and reliable support. This is how cybersecurity becomes an integral part of a collaborative and future-proof automation system.
Cybersecurity with Beckhoff – learn more: Technical information, security guides, and the latest security updates are available here.