ENHANCING SCADA SYSTEM SECURITY THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PAIRED INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL FIREWALLS

The security of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems is critical due to their key role in managing and controlling industrial processes. This paper explores the security aspects of SCADA systems, with a particular focus on the implementation of paired internal and external firewalls as a primary protective measure. SCADA systems are often exposed to various types of threats, including malware, unauthorized access, and targeted attacks, which can lead to serious consequences for production processes and infrastructure. Internal firewalls serve as the first line of defense within the network, filtering traffic between different segments of the SCADA network and preventing potentially malicious activities within the network itself. External firewalls, on the other hand, provide protection at the network perimeter, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic and preventing unauthorized access from external threats. The paper analyzes different threat scenarios and vulnerabilities, best practices for firewall system configuration and management, including network segmentation, traffic rules, and activity monitoring. It also considers the importance of regular updates and maintenance of firewall rules to respond to new threats. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach to SCADA system security, where firewalls represent a critical, but not the only, component of a comprehensive protection strategy. Establishing layered security through a combination of technological solutions and operational procedures is essential for effectively maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of SCADA systems.