Question 1

What is a data diode?

Accepted Answer

A data diode is a class of cybersecurity hardware used to protect industrial control systems and other infrastructure by only allowing the data to flow in one direction. Once reserved for extremely critical applications, like the protection of nuclear power plants, this technology’s cost and complexity have decreased significantly in recent years. Diodes now present a practical choice for industrial and utility cybersecurity.

Question 2

How do data diodes work?

Accepted Answer

Data diodes send data in only one direction using a beam of light. All inbound traffic is stopped by the diode because the hardware does not provide light to shine in the reverse. Data diodes provide connectivity to the Industrial Internet of Things and the security of an “air gap.” Operators can transmit equipment status without any possible way for hackers to control industrial equipment, inject ransomware, or use legacy systems as a backdoor to business information systems.

Question 3

Who uses data diodes?

Accepted Answer

Data diodes are becoming increasingly rugged and affordable, expanding their uses. They can be used to protect sensitive data like financial transactions, critical infrastructure control systems, and classified data. Our current applications of data diode protection include: - Electricity Production - Oil and Gas - Healthcare Facilities  - Manufacturing - Waste and Water Treatment - Transportation and Logistics

Question 4

What are the benefits of using data diodes?

Accepted Answer

Today’s internet was designed around two-way communication. This setup inherently introduces cybersecurity vulnerabilities even when a truly one-way function, like equipment monitoring, is desired. Data diodes enable secure access to online monitoring and predictive analytics, allowing: - Increased Efficiency - Decreased Unexpected Downtimes - Increased Staff Productivity

Question 5

Can a data diode be hacked?

Accepted Answer

Hackers cannot penetrate the network connection remotely. Data diodes are designed to be highly secure and difficult to hack, which is why they are typically built with multiple layers of security, including physical security, encryption, and access control mechanisms.

Question 6

What are the limitations of using a data diode?

Accepted Answer

Since data diodes allow data to flow in one, it can limit the applications that are used within. Depending on the use case of your business, a bidirectional data flow may be better suited for you.

Fend’s Data Diodes

Getting Started With a Fend Data Diode

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