A Practical Framework for Evaluating Cybersecurity Tools Leveraging the IEC62443 Standard

As the demand for robust cybersecurity tools continues to rise, it becomes crucial to assess their security levels and alignment with established practices. In this article, we present a validation methodology derived from the standard IEC 62443, specifically IEC 62443-4-1 and IEC 62443-4-2. Our methodology begins by mapping the cybersecurity tools to the practices outlined in IEC 62443-4-1, ensuring a comprehensive coverage of relevant security aspects. Subsequently, the mapped tools are further assessed against the foundational requirements specified in IEC 62443-4-2, providing a solid foundation for evaluating their security effectiveness. By leveraging this methodology, organizations can effectively gauge the security levels of cybersecurity tools and identify their alignments with industry best practices. The proposed methodology aims to enhance the reliability and trustworthiness of cybersecurity tools, ultimately contributing to the overall resilience of critical infrastructure systems. We validate the applicability and effectiveness of the methodology through a case study and discuss its implications for cybersecurity tool evaluation in a practical context.