NTT Data, a major system integrator based in London, and Palo Alto Networks, a front-runner in cybersecurity, have announced a strategic collaboration in a bid to enhance security for private 5G networks tailored for Industry 4.0. This enhanced security initiative comes at a crucial time when connected industrial environments are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. By melding NTT Data’s sophisticated private 5G architecture with Palo Alto Networks’ advanced Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) solution, the partners aim to establish a strong ‘zero-trust’ security posture. In doing so, they seek to address the growing cybersecurity needs of industrial sectors, which are rapidly adopting digital transformation.
Tackling Cybersecurity in Industrial IoT and OT Environments
As the industrial sector becomes ever more connected, cybersecurity concerns have surged, with IDC research indicating that 70% of industrial organizations experienced cyberattacks on their operational technology (OT) environments in the past year alone, resulting in operational downtime and business disruption. NTT Data and Palo Alto Networks have developed a managed security product specifically for industrial 5G networks, bringing together the strengths of both companies. This new product integrates machine learning for identifying and analyzing IoT and OT devices, providing real-time visibility into encrypted data and network traffic, and employing zero-trust access controls to limit connections strictly to authorized devices and applications.
Moreover, the service offers AI-driven automatic threat detection, which significantly enhances its protective capabilities. Designed for seamless integration into existing enterprise IT and OT setups, this solution promises to bring a streamlined approach to managing network security. The proliferation of IoT and OT devices has exponentially expanded the potential attack surface, making it integral for security to be a fundamental component of network design right from the outset rather than an afterthought. Given that private 5G networks come equipped with robust security features, incorporating advanced measures from the beginning is essential to mitigate risks.
Comprehensive Security for Digital Transformation
Private 5G networks stand out as a potential answer to such challenges, given their enhanced security features. Shahid Ahmed, Group Executive Vice President of Edge Services at NTT Data, emphasized the innovative approach their collaboration brings. NTT Data’s private 5G solution, particularly branded as NTT DATA Private 5G and resold from Celona, occasionally collaborates with Nokia unofficially and hints at potential future engagements with Ericsson. Ahmed highlighted that this approach effectively sets a new standard for private 5G security, combining Palo Alto Networks’ robust cybersecurity capabilities with NTT Data’s advanced 5G infrastructure.
This powerful combination empowers enterprises to securely advance their digital transformation initiatives. The collaboration is poised to safeguard critical data and networks, enabling secure and efficient operation within the digital realm. Anand Oswal, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Network Security at Palo Alto Networks, reiterated the crucial role of security as enterprises increasingly embrace 5G technology. He stressed that the partnership not only accelerates digital transformation for these enterprises but also ensures that this journey is undertaken safely, with adequate protection for critical infrastructure.
Case Study: NTT Data and Roularta Media Group
A noteworthy example of this collaboration’s deployment is seen in NTT Data’s partnership with Roularta Media Group (RMG). At RMG’s large manufacturing facility, a private 5G network has been established using Celona’s radio and core networking gear. This setup operates on the 3.7 GHz n77 band, designated for enterprise use by Belgian regulators. The significant security improvements from the Palo Alto Networks collaboration have played a pivotal role in ensuring robust protection for RMG’s operations. Luc Neysens, CIO of RMG, has acknowledged the potential productivity enhancements and innovative use cases made possible by securing the OT network.
With the growing necessity to protect increasingly interconnected environments, the collaboration between NTT Data and Palo Alto Networks has set a new benchmark. The deployment at RMG exemplifies how private 5G networks can revolutionize industrial settings by offering not just speed and connectivity but also impenetrable security. The focus on future-proofing enterprise operations ensures that companies can harness the power of digital transformation without compromising security. This is especially crucial as more sectors leverage connected technologies to drive innovation and efficiency.
Future Steps and Considerations
NTT Data, a prominent system integrator based in London, and Palo Alto Networks, a leader in cybersecurity, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at boosting security for private 5G networks designed for Industry 4.0. This enhanced security effort is timely, as connected industrial environments are increasingly susceptible to cyber threats. By integrating NTT Data’s advanced private 5G architecture with Palo Alto Networks’ cutting-edge Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) technology, the collaboration intends to establish a robust ‘zero-trust’ security framework. Their goal is to meet the escalating cybersecurity requirements of industrial sectors, which are swiftly embracing digital transformation. This collaboration addresses crucial security challenges, working to safeguard industrial operations from potential cyber attacks, ensuring a secure transition into Industry 4.0.
