CIMCO Unveils OT-Max: A Breakthrough in Machine Tool Cybersecurity

At this year’s IMTS Conference, a key discussion revolved around machine tool connectivity and cybersecurity in manufacturing, a topic raised during an interview with Jens Christophliemke, CEO of INC-MEDIALINE GmbH, and Jody Romanowski, CEO of CIMCO Americas. The duo highlighted their groundbreaking solution, OT-Max, which is designed to secure communication between machine tools and corporate networks.

CIMCO, known for their suite of software solutions such as DNC-Max, which transfers data between machine tools and networks, has been facing increasing challenges with the rise of cybersecurity threats. These include unencrypted protocols commonly used by CNC machines, posing significant risks to manufacturers.

“We’re running into trouble at customer sites because machines often use outdated protocols that IT departments can’t allow due to regulatory or security concerns,” Romanowski explained. “Our solution, OT-Max, bypasses these issues by creating a secure communication gateway.”

OT-Max is not just another firewall. As Christophliemke elaborated, “Firewalls don’t resolve the root problem. They can’t secure the outdated machine-specific protocols still in use today. OT-Max, however, speaks these machine protocols—whether from FANUC, Siemens, or others—and converts them into secure, encrypted protocols for the company network.”

The device separates machine tools from the customer’s network entirely, effectively eliminating security concerns. Christophliemke added, “It’s unique because 99% of the machines on shop floors worldwide use insecure protocols. This device ensures full protection.”

As regulations tighten globally, particularly with the new NIS2 law in Europe, solutions like OT-Max are becoming indispensable. The law mandates that any machine with an outdated or insecure protocol cannot be connected to a network without the necessary cybersecurity measures in place.

Romanowski also emphasized how OT-Max integrates with CIMCO’s existing DNC-Max software. “We’ve developed an API that enables DNC-Max to securely communicate with the OT-Max device, ensuring that no insecure data reaches the customer’s network,” she said.

Both executives underscored the importance of staying ahead of evolving cybersecurity demands, with governments increasingly requiring certifications like CMMC for contractors and their subcontractors. “This is just the beginning,” Romanowski noted. “Manufacturers across sectors like aerospace and medical are leading the way, but soon, these requirements will apply to everyone.”

OT-Max stands as a unique solution in the market, setting CIMCO apart. “There’s nothing like this,” Christophliemke stated. “While firewalls and other systems exist, OT-Max is the first to fully address this specific challenge.”

For more information on OT-Max and other CIMCO solutions, visit their website at www.cimco.com.

Tags: CIMCO, CNC machine protocols, DNC-Max, machine tool cybersecurity, network security, OT-Max

Category: CIMCO

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