Security in virtual automation networks

The EU funded project VAN targets the only partially existing proprietary solutions to connect automation networks and devices via public networks in a secure, safe and predictable way. This work in progress paper provides an overview of the solutions implemented in VAN which are currently evaluated for the use in general purpose networks. The generally accepted phase model to implement an abstract security solution is introduced and some aspects are addressed more deeply. VAN will introduce a vendor independent communication solution to interconnect automation networks using public network infrastructures and hence reduce costs, complexity and potentials of misconfiguration.