Embedded Virtualization and Security for Automation

The solution combines an mGuard security software appliance from Innominate with a Windows system on the same multi-core PC platform using the latest TenAsys eVM for Windows embedded virtualization software. It thus provides a hardened and secure Windows platform for networked industrial PC applications in a cost effective way.

Two years ago, Innominate had introduced the so called HyperSecured concept of using a hypervisor to protect industrial automation components by virtualized security appliances and demonstrated its feasibility with the exhibit of a HyperSecured Soft-PLC.

TenAsys and Innominate have now combined their latest technologies to further the concept and make it ready for production use. In the joint solution, TenAsys’ eVM for Windows embedded virtualization manager provides the foundation to integrate a standard Windows operating system with the mGuard software from Innominate running in its own virtual machine on a single PC. Additional real-time cores can then also be made available in this environment such that, e.g., a real-time controller and an operator interface, both with integrated network security, can be implemented on one multi-core hardware platform.

Innominate and TenAsys expect the solution to become commercially available through initial OEMs from the IPC industry within the first half of 2013.