Sword Strengthens Commitment to Cybersecurity with New Partnerships
Recently, Sword has publicly announced its membership in both the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance (ISAGCA) and ISASecure. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in enhancing operational technology (OT) cybersecurity and showcases Sword's dedication to improving security protocols within the industry. By being part of these prominent organizations, Sword looks to bolster the adoption of ISA/IEC 62443 standards, which are crucial for securing industrial automation and control systems.
Sword is committed to optimizing the value of its clients' investments in information technology. With a growing emphasis on industrial and OT cybersecurity services, the firm is specifically focused on assisting operators, manufacturers, and energy providers in mitigating cyber risks. These efforts include improving asset resilience and aligning with established international standards across various sectors.
Advancing Cybersecurity Awareness Through Collaboration
As a member of ISAGCA, Sword will work alongside leading industry figures to elevate awareness and encourage widespread implementation of the ISA/IEC 62443 standards framework. This initiative aims to create a secure environment for critical infrastructure worldwide. Additionally, Sword's involvement in the ISASecure program is designed to facilitate enhanced certification pathways, validating products and systems against stringent cybersecurity requirements.
Mark DeAngelo, the ISASecure program manager, commended Sword's membership, highlighting the depth of expertise they bring to OT environments. His remarks reflect the importance of collaboration in driving validated conformance to ISA/IEC 62443 standards across various global sectors.
Strengthening Security Practices in Operational Technology
Sword is keen on promoting practical guidance alongside relevant architectural frameworks aligned with the ISA/IEC 62443 standards. In conjunction, their participation in the ISASecure program will champion best practices not only for secure development but also for the overall certification of systems and supplier assurance.
Stuart Townhill, a principal consultant at Sword, expressed enthusiasm regarding the new partnerships, describing how these memberships underscore a long-term commitment to advancing OT cybersecurity. Customers will benefit from clear, consistent benchmarks that measure security maturity and foster trusting relationships within supply chains.
Leveraging ISA/IEC 62443 for Greater Assurance
The ISA/IEC 62443 series lays out a detailed framework for securing industrial automation and control systems (IACS), covering critical facets such as personnel, processes, and technology. The ISASecure certification framework further enhances this approach by providing independent validation for products and systems that meet rigorous standards.
Sword’s recent participation in ISAGCA and ISASecure significantly enhances its ability to promote the practical adoption of ISA/IEC 62443-based methodologies. This development not only enriches Sword's service offering but also contributes to wider market awareness regarding best practices in OT cybersecurity.
About ISAGCA and ISASecure
The ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance (ISAGCA) aims to enhance cybersecurity awareness and education in operational technology realms. Comprising over 50 member organizations, ISAGCA represents a diverse set of industries with substantial revenue across numerous locations globally. Their collaborative efforts in standardization elevate the operational integrity of various sectors.
ISASecure, founded in 2007, provides assurance for the security of industrial automation control systems. Its certifications demonstrate that products and supplier practices adhere to the stringent benchmarks outlined in the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, solidifying further trust within the industry. The program is supported by key industry players, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.
About Sword
Sword specializes in enhancing critical national infrastructure and various regulated sectors by maximizing the value derived from IT investments. With over 30 years of experience, the organization has been addressing complex business challenges through a combination of domain-specific insights and technical expertise. Their services encompass everything from asset management and business transformation to comprehensive IT support solutions.
Supported by a skilled team of 600 UK-based experts and 3,500 professionals globally, Sword strives to deliver sustainable, pragmatic support to empower organizations in navigating their cybersecurity and operational landscapes. By committing to such partnerships, Sword takes a proactive role in driving cybersecurity standards and ensuring the resilience of industrial operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance?
The ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance is a collaborative forum aimed at enhancing awareness and education around operational technology cybersecurity.
What is ISASecure?
ISASecure is a certification program established to assure the cybersecurity of industrial automation control systems through conformance to ISA/IEC 62443 standards.
How does Sword enhance cybersecurity for organizations?
Sword offers a range of services focused on mitigating cyber risks, bolstering asset resilience, and aligning with international security standards.
Why is the ISA/IEC 62443 standards framework important?
This framework provides a comprehensive structure for securing industrial automation systems, addressing the interplay of people, processes, and technologies.
How does Sword support adoption of cybersecurity standards?
Through its membership in ISAGCA and ISASecure, Sword engages in promoting best practices and facilitating certification pathways for reliable security measures.
