Cyber Security

Learning Objectives

The learning path aims to:

• Acquire basic knowledge of cyber security as applied to automation technology.
• Perceive and recognise current cyber threats in the industrial field.
• Analyse, segment and protect production networks and OT environments.
• Learn to implement secure communications in Industry 4.0.
• Design and apply concrete, scalable security solutions.

Lab Objectives

The lab is structured to offer a technical, immersive learning experience, with the aim of:

• Providing theoretical and practical knowledge of industrial cyber security, particularly the protection of OT networks in automated production settings.
• Enabling students to identify vulnerabilities, simulate real attacks (e.g. replay, DoS, scans) and implement effective defensive countermeasures.
• Using professional tools such as traffic analysers, industrial firewalls, Profinet/Profibus interfaces, IO-Link modules and multi-layer security solutions.
• Acquiring skills in configuring industrial network devices, using secure protocols (OPC UA, MQTT) and analysing traffic with tools such as Wireshark and Zenmap.

Educational Aims

The lab’s educational aims are to integrate cyber security into industrial automation processes, with attention to:

• Raising students’ awareness of cyber threats in OT environments and of the most effective defence strategies.
• Designing secure network architectures and configuring VLANs and zones according to the relevant standards (IEC 62443).
• Promoting an interdisciplinary approach across computing, electronics, automation and networking.
• Simulating real attack and defence scenarios to develop critical thinking, analytical skills and problem solving.
• Managing the integration of OT and IT networks securely and traceably, ensuring reliable data exchange between production and business environments.

Conclusion

The “Cyber Security in Production Networks” lab is a modern training offer designed to meet the challenges of Industry 4.0 and cyber-physical integration. Using real technologies and professional software, students can tackle concrete attack and defence situations, developing technical skills that are now essential in the labour market.

With a practical, well-structured programme, the lab helps train professionals able to design, protect and manage industrial automation networks and systems securely.

This solution includes technological systems that promote inclusion and equal opportunities through innovative teaching methods, encouraging active, collaborative learning.