Cybersecurity has become one of the central concerns for businesses and governments worldwide, with the frequency and complexity of cyberattacks on the rise. Protecting digital infrastructure is a key concern in both the public and private sectors. Attacks on networks, data, and systems can result in significant economic damage and pose serious threats to national security.
To address this growing challenge, companies and authorities must implement comprehensive security measures. The EU has established regulatory frameworks such as the NIS-2 Directive (Second Network and Information Security Directive) and the Cyber Resilience Act to support these efforts.
How can IT systems be effectively protected in practice?
The most effective defense against digital intrusions is to create a true physical separation, known as an air gap, between IT systems to ensure secure data transfer.
The IHSE Group has developed a robust, user-friendly, and security-certified protection concept which enables the convenient and seamless operation of physically separated systems. This approach ensures the integrity of all systems unaffected by an attack. For 40 years, IHSE has been developing and manufacturing high-security KVM systems of exceptional quality – made in Germany.
KVM Technology as the Core and Control Hub of Digital Workflows
KVM technology enables multiple computers to be controlled using a single keyboard, mouse, and one or more monitors. KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse — the standard input and output devices at a workstation. This technology allows computers and workstations to be separated by several kilometers, providing an easy way to protect computers from unauthorized access by relocating them in secure server rooms. At the workstation, only monitors, keyboards, and mice are required.
KVM systems are used in all types of control rooms and operations centers. In addition to ensuring efficient and streamlined workflows, these systems offer the highest level of security. Modern IP technology also enables secure remote access, including from home offices.
Protection Against Cyberattacks with KVM Systems
KVM systems provide multiple layers of protection that go beyond securing data by relocating computers to safeguarded server rooms. Advanced security mechanisms proactively prevent data theft and offer robust protection against both external and internal threats
- Physical Security: Storing computers in secure rooms prevents unauthorized access, tampering, and sabotage.
- Eavesdrop-Proof Data Transmission: Connections between remote computers and workstations use proprietary (manufacturer-specific), encrypted, and eavesdrop-proof transmission protocols, making them immune to hacking
- Access Controls: Operators must authenticate themselves and are subject to configurable access rules
- Data Theft Prevention: Workstations are designed to prevent external manipulation or espionage
- Network Isolation: The central switch (control hub) is physically separated from the IP network, preemptively isolating hacking attempts
- Ease of System Expansion: KVM systems can be expanded during operation without compromising security or workflows
- Security Certifications: IHSE solutions are certified, including Common Criteria EAL4+, demonstrating their exceptional suitability for use in high-security environments
Conclusion
KVM solutions play a key role in the secure and efficient management of multiple networks and systems. As threats continue to grow, KVM systems are becoming the global standard for enhancing IT infrastructure security. However, these solutions must meet the highest security requirements to protect a company’s “crown jewels” – its most valuable and critical data, systems, and resources. With IHSE as your KVM partner, you are securely protected against cyber threats!
Read german article here: HB Journal 12/2024 Cybersecurity – Handelsblatt-Journal