Digi and Cylus provide cyber security for rail networks

  • August 7, 2024
  • Steve Rogerson
  • Digi

Minnesota-based Digi and Israeli cyber-security firm Cylus are combining technologies to improve safety on rail networks.

The alliance integrates the CylusOne cyber security product into the Digi TX64 5G Rail cellular router delivering cyber protection for rail networks worldwide.

With rail systems increasingly relying on digital connectivity and the number of cyber threats to rail communication networks on the rise, safeguarding these networks has never been more essential. The integration of CylusOne with the TX64 5G Rail directly addresses this, combining 5G connectivity and cyber security into a single device, along with Digi Remote Manager (www.digi.com/products/iot-software-services/digi-remote-manager) for remote monitoring and management.

“Our collaboration with Cylus marks a significant advancement for rail cyber security,” said Steve Mazur, business development director at Digi. “With the new integration, we are not only enhancing the security and reliability of rail networks but also streamlining and improving operations for rail operators globally.”

The TX64 5G Rail cellular router (www.digi.com/products/networking/cellular-routers/transportation/digi-tx64-5g-rail) with integrated CylusOne (www.cylus.com/product) offers both high-speed connectivity and specialised cyber protection in one device, simplifying infrastructure and reducing the complexity and physical space requirements typical of multi-device setups.

“Cylus is at the forefront of rail cyber security, and we are delighted to partner with Digi to bring this innovation to the industry,” said Miki Shifman, CTO of Cylus. “Together we can provide rail operators with unparalleled security and connectivity, underlining our ongoing mission and commitment to protect critical rail infrastructure against evolving cyber threats, ensuring continuous safety and operational efficiency.”

Unlike generic cyber-security offerings, CylusOne is built for the industry and designed for the operational rail technology environment, addressing the specific threats faced by today’s rail systems and a security enhancement for the TX64 5G Rail router.

Providing cellular connectivity across 5G, 4G and 3G networks, combined with enterprise-grade routing, security, firewall and integrated VPN capabilities, the router’s versatile interface design includes an integrated Wifi 6 access point and client, USB ports, serial connections, inertial-guided GNSS, Bluetooth and a four-port Gigabit Ethernet switch, along with various configuration options.

Additionally, it features FirstNet Trusted support to help address the critical needs of first responders during emergencies. The router also adheres to the US government’s FIPS 140-2 cyber-security standard and incorporates the Digi TrustFence security framework, ensuring robust security from day one and throughout its lifecycle. With Remote Manager and available value-added services, deployment and central management of the router can be both straightforward and efficient.

Digi (www.digi.com) is a provider of IoT connectivity products and services. It helps companies create connected products and deploy and manage critical communications infrastructures in demanding environments with high levels of security and reliability. Founded in 1985, Digi has helped customers connect more than 100 million things.

Cylus (www.cylus.com) provides rail operators with cyber security to ensure service availability and safety. Combining deep rail and cyber-security expertise, Cylus has pioneered a platform for real-time asset visibility and threat detection across heterogeneous rail operating technology environments.