Network Security at the Distributed Edge

As operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) converge in manufacturing and critical infrastructures, internet-connected operational systems provide real-time data and enable remote monitoring and AI deployment. However, cyber-attack risks increase simultaneously. Deploying reliable edge gateways for firewalls and whitelisting has never been more crucial for enhanced cybersecurity.

Challenges

The customer, headquartered in the United States, specializes in cybersecurity and data acquisition for critical infrastructure, industrial control systems, and the Industrial IoT. They needed a hyper-secure RISC-based gateway for distributed edge applications that is low-power, high-performance, and cost-effective. To ensure secure remote access across distributed networks, the gateway had to operate in critical environments, supporting wide temperature ranges, wide voltage inputs, and offering multiple connectivity options, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, cellular, and serial-over-IP.

Main Requirements

Solution

Axiomtek proposed the IFB122, a compact, cost-effective RISC-based DIN-rail industrial IoT gateway powered by the low-power Freescale i.MX 6UL-2 processor (ARM® Cortex™-A7). The IFB122 provides extensive I/O, including two RS-232/422/485 ports, two 10/100 Mbps LAN ports, one USB 2.0 port, one digital I/O, a PCIe Mini Card slot, and a SIM card slot for wireless/3G/4G integration. With 256MB DDR3 memory and 8GB eMMC storage, it supports a wide temperature range (-40°C to +70°C) and vibration up to 5G. Its 9V-48V DC lockable terminal power input ensures high reliability. The lightweight 0.44 kg vertical DIN-rail design makes installation simple, even in compact spaces.

Application: Network Protection at the Edge

The IFB122 secures edge devices using the Host Identity Protocol (HIP) for encrypted communication. A zero-trust architecture ensures only trusted devices are whitelisted, cloaking critical devices from attacks. The gateway also manages secure remote access and protects data transmission between infrastructure devices and the cloud.

Axiomtek provides reliable, secure, and cost-effective industrial IoT solutions. By combining robust hardware with extensive connectivity and long-term support, Axiomtek enables customers to protect distributed infrastructure and maintain seamless operations.

System Configurations