IEC 62443-2-1:2024

Overview

IEC 62443-2-1:2024 is a key international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines security program requirements for Industrial Automation and Control System (IACS) asset owners. This updated edition focuses on establishing robust security policies and procedures for asset owners and operators managing industrial control systems that often have lifespans exceeding twenty years. Recognizing the challenges posed by legacy systems and unsupported hardware/software, the standard emphasizes adaptable security programs with compensating controls where direct technical solutions are unavailable.

This edition introduces a revised structure based on Security Program Elements (SPEs), removes duplicative requirements with information security management systems (ISMS), and includes a maturity model to assess compliance levels. IEC 62443-2-1:2024 supports industrial sectors in safeguarding their automation infrastructure against evolving cyber threats through comprehensive, lifecycle-oriented security governance.

Key Topics

• Asset Owner Security Program (SP) Requirements: Defines organizational policies and procedures for managing IACS security risks over operational lifecycles-including legacy and outdated technologies.

• Security Program Elements (SPEs): Structured categorization of requirements into:

  • Organizational security measures
  • Configuration management
  • Network and communications security
  • Component security
  • Protection of data
  • User access control

• Legacy System Considerations: Addresses challenges like unsupported software, unavailable patches, and backup limitations by recommending compensating controls within security policies.

• Maturity Model for Evaluation: Provides a framework to assess the effectiveness and maturity of an asset owner’s security programs, facilitating continuous improvement.

• Conformance and Assessment: Guidelines for assessing conformity and collecting evidence to demonstrate compliance with the standard’s security program requirements.

• Risk Mitigation and Anomaly Detection: Emphasizes ongoing risk assessments, security reviews, and processes to detect and respond to security incidents within the IACS environment.

Applications

IEC 62443-2-1:2024 applies primarily to:

• Industrial Automation Asset Owners and Operators: Entities responsible for managing and securing automation and control systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, water treatment, oil and gas, and critical infrastructure.

• Security Program Development: Creating or refining organizational security programs tailored to the unique risks and operational realities of industrial control systems.

• Legacy System Management: Guiding asset owners in implementing compensating security measures when direct technical solutions like patching are unavailable.

• Cybersecurity Governance: Establishing a comprehensive security management approach that integrates with broader organizational frameworks including ISMS.

• Supply Chain and Third-Party Security: Mitigating risks associated with service providers and vendors involved with IACS components and maintenance.

• Compliance and Audit Preparation: Supporting compliance with regulatory requirements related to industrial cybersecurity by defining measurable security program criteria.

Related Standards

• IEC TS 62443-1-1: Provides foundational concepts and terminology used within the IEC 62443 series, including defining what constitutes an Industrial Automation and Control System (IACS).

• IEC 62443 Series: A comprehensive set of standards covering multiple IACS security aspects, such as:

  • IEC 62443-3-3: System security requirements and security levels
  • IEC 62443-4-1 and 4-2: Secure product development lifecycle and technical security requirements for IACS products

• ISO/IEC 27001: Information security management system standards often integrated with IEC 62443-2-1 security program requirements for holistic organizational security.

Conclusion

IEC 62443-2-1:2024 is essential for industrial asset owners seeking to implement structured, sustainable cybersecurity programs tailored to complex and long-lived automation environments. The standard bridges the gap between technical controls and organizational processes, enabling improved risk management, resilience against cyber threats, and regulatory compliance. By adopting IEC 62443-2-1, organizations can enhance the security posture of their industrial systems and protect critical operational capabilities for the future.