IEC 62443-2-4

IEC 62443-2-4 is a part of the IEC 62443 series of international standards that focus on the security of industrial automation and control systems, commonly referred to as "Industrial Automation and Control Systems Security" or "IACS Security."

More specifically, IEC 62443-2-4 addresses the technical security requirements for the development of secure products used in industrial automation and control systems. This standard provides guidelines and recommendations for the secure development and testing of software components that are used in industrial environments to ensure the cybersecurity of these systems.

Key areas covered by IEC 62443-2-4 include:

1. **Secure Development Process:** The standard outlines the processes and practices that should be followed during the software development lifecycle to ensure security considerations are properly integrated. This includes defining security requirements, secure design, coding guidelines, and testing.

2. **Security Controls:** IEC 62443-2-4 defines specific security controls that should be implemented within the software components. These controls help to mitigate common cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities.

3. **Security Testing:** The standard provides guidance on various testing activities, including vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, to identify and address security issues in the software.

4. **Security Documentation:** Documentation requirements related to security considerations, design decisions, and testing results are outlined to ensure proper tracking of security-related activities.

5. **Security Maintenance:** Recommendations for maintaining security over the software's lifecycle, including patch management and updates, are provided.

The IEC 62443 series, including Part 2-4, is intended to help organizations in industrial sectors establish a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity for their industrial automation and control systems. These standards are particularly important as industries increasingly adopt digital technologies and networked systems, which can expose them to various cyber threats and risks.

It's worth noting that the information provided is based on my knowledge as of September 2021. Standards and specifications might have evolved since then, so I recommend checking the latest sources for the most up-to-date information on IEC 62443-2-4 or any related standards.