Emerson’s Ovation® Security Center Streamlines, Centralizes Execution of Cyber-Security Management Functions for CIP Compliance

Emerson Automation Solutions 13/12/2008

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Applications complement Emerson’s existing cyber-security measures, help power generators more easily manage efforts related to achieving regulatory compliance

PITTSBURGH (Dec. 9, 2008) — Today, Emerson Process Management introduced the Ovation® Security Center. Tightly integrated into the company’s industry-leading Ovation expert control system, the Ovation Security Center makes it easier for Emerson’s power generation customers to manage the execution of cyber-security measures related to compliance with the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards. These standards require the power industry to identify and protect critical cyber assets related to the reliable operation of bulk electric systems.
The Ovation Security Center’s centrally located console streamlines management of the following security applications:

· Security event collection and threat identification
· Patch deployment and audit
· Malware detection and prevention
· Event log storage and reporting
· Intrusion detection and prevention
· Data back-up and recovery
· Vulnerability assessment and management

The Security Center’s event management capability provides a centralized event collection, event correlation, and threat identification function for security-related events in an Ovation control system. Security events are collected from each network device including network intrusion detection systems, firewalls, routers, switches, servers, workstations, controllers, and Security Center application modules.
Critical security events that require plant personnel intervention are forwarded to a notification function, such as the Ovation alarm system, an e-mail or pager. Periodic updates to patches, vulnerability databases and security signatures are downloaded through Emerson’s SureServiceSM software update program, and standard security management reports are available for operations management and regulatory compliance.
These enhancements complement Emerson’s existing cyber-security measures, resulting in an integrated, robust solution for owners/operators of power generation facilities. They also underscore Emerson’s ongoing commitment to providing customers with comprehensive solutions that address the power industry’s evolving security challenges. As part of its SureService customer support program, Emerson also offers security assessments and audits.
“Helping our customers operate their plants securely, reliably, safely and efficiently has always been – and will continue to be – a top priority for Emerson,” said Bob Yeager, president of the Power & Water Solutions division of Emerson. “The integration of the Ovation Security Center within the Ovation control system is just the latest in our ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring that Emerson continues to be the secure choice in power plant automation and control.”

CONTACTS:

Amy Schlemmer, Emerson Process Management, Power & Water Solutions
1 (412) 963-4912, Amy.Schlemmer@Emerson.com

Pattie Sullivan
1 (412) 456-4706, Patricia.Sullivan@eurorscg.com

Jerry Moon, Emerson Process Management
1 (512) 832-3089, Jerry.Moon@Emerson.com

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Emerson Automation Solutions

0870 240 1978
uksales@emerson.com
Meridian East, Meridian Business Park, Leicester, Leicestershire LE19 1UX GB

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