Operant Networks, a leader in secure machine communications and Non-Human Identity (NHI), today announced the launch of the first embedded software module designed to bring Zero Trust security to programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other industrial equipment.

Traditional cybersecurity approaches have focused on granting broad access to authorized individuals across entire networks and systems. In contrast, Zero Trust is a modern security paradigm that enforces strict authentication and granular policy enforcement for each access instance. While tools like passwords, two-factor authentication, and biometrics have become standard for human users, equivalent authentication mechanisms for non-human identities (NHIs) have remained an unsolved problem.

Operant’s new Embedded OPN Connect solution provides a lightweight software module that integrates directly with hardware-based unique identifiers. It leverages public-private key cryptography to authenticate all device communications, enabling customers to verify machine identities and enforce Trust Rules governing both role-based and attribute-based access controls. 

"With the rapid expansion of internet-connected industrial equipment, we’re seeing a rise in cyber threats targeting machines that were never designed with security in mind—such as PLCs," said Keith Rose, CEO of Operant Networks. "Given the critical role of PLCs in industrial operations, we saw an urgent need for a lightweight, built-in security layer to mitigate these growing risks."

This software module allows customers to directly embed the security of Operant's existing OPN Connect solution, which has gained broad adoption by critical infrastructure operators, particularly in power generation. Traditionally, OPN Connect is deployed as a virtual or hardware gateway to secure site-level network communications. When combined with Operant’s secure remote access capabilities, customers obtain a unified trust layer that spans across both human and non-human interactions.

With ransomware attacks increasingly targeting industries like manufacturing, energy, and healthcare, securing industrial machines requires a deeper, more proactive approach. “Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Hardware and software vendors need cost-effective, built-in security solutions to protect critical operations. Our embedded OPN Connect solution helps OEMs add secure-by-design capabilities, delivering greater value to end customers,” Rose added.

The embedded OPN Connect solution is compatible with common x86 and ARM processors and can be deployed on standalone external gateways or embedded PCBs. It also includes a user interface for managing non-human identity lifecycles, ensuring seamless, ongoing security for industrial assets.

Operant Networks will showcase this new product at the DISTRIBUTECH conference, March 24-27 in Dallas, TX.

For more information, contact [email protected].