Secure File Transfer and Syslog Replication Using Owl Data Diodes
Overview
This case study outlines the implementation of a secure file transfer and syslog replication solution using Owl Cyber Defense data diodes. Designed for high-security environments such as critical infrastructure, defense, and energy sectors, the solution ensures unidirectional data flow for transferring operational files and system logs from OT networks to IT environments. Owl’s technology enables real-time data replication while safeguarding the OT network from external cyber threats, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Client Profile
- Industry: Power Generation and Distribution
- Location: Middle East
Challenge
The client required a secure mechanism to transfer critical operational files and syslog data from their OT network to the IT network for monitoring, auditing, and compliance reporting. The OT network operates in a highly secure, air-gapped environment where external cyber threats and regulatory requirements necessitate stringent network isolation.
Solution
A data replication solution was implemented using unidirectional data transfer to:
- Securely transfer operational files (e.g., configuration files, batch reports) and system logs (e.g., syslog, security logs) to the IT network.
- Enable log analysis and centralized storage without compromising OT network security.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks such as IEC 62443 and NERC CIP.
Solution Components
- OT File Server and Syslog Sources (OT Network):
- Operational data files generated by industrial systems (e.g., SCADA, DCS).
- Syslog messages generated by OT devices, such as firewalls, PLCs, and HMIs.
- Owl Data Diode:
- A hardware-enforced data diode allowing only outbound data transfer from the OT to the IT network.
- Utilized Owl’s proprietary protocol for high-speed, reliable data transfer.
- Replication Middleware:
- Owl Cyber Defense software handles file ingestion, formatting, and transfer through the data diode.
- Processes and streams log entries to IT-side storage.
- IT File Server and Syslog Server (IT Network):
- Centralized file repository and SIEM platform (e.g., Splunk, LogRhythm) for analytics and compliance reporting.
Key Benefits
- Enhanced Security:
- Unidirectional data flow enforced by Owl data diodes eliminated the risk of IT-side cyberattacks propagating to the OT network.
- Operational Efficiency:
- Automated file transfer and syslog replication reduced manual intervention, enabling real-time data availability for IT operations.
- Regulatory Compliance:
- The solution adhered to industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Data Centralization:
- Centralized log storage and file repositories facilitated compliance reporting and operational analytics.
- Scalability:
- The architecture supported additional file types and log sources, enabling future expansion as operational needs evolved.
- Reliable Data Access:
- IT teams gained real-time access to operational files and syslog data for monitoring, analytics, and compliance.
The Owl Cyber Defense data diode solution provided the client with a secure, reliable, and scalable system for file transfer and syslog replication. By ensuring unidirectional data flow and seamless integration with OT and IT environments, the solution empowered real-time analytics, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Owl’s robust technology and comprehensive support demonstrated its value in safeguarding critical infrastructure environments.
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