IEC 62443
International standard for securing industrial automation systems
AS9110C
Aerospace standard for aircraft MRO quality management.
Quick Verdict
IEC 62443 provides cybersecurity for industrial control systems via risk-based frameworks and certifications, while AS9110C ensures quality management in aerospace MRO through process controls and audits. OT firms adopt IEC 62443 for resilience; aviation providers use AS9110C for compliance and safety.
IEC 62443
IEC 62443: Industrial Automation and Control Systems Security
Key Features
- Risk-based zones/conduits with target security levels (SL-T)
- Shared responsibility for asset owners, integrators, suppliers
- Seven foundational requirements (FR1-7) for systems/components
- Security level triad (SL-T, SL-C, SL-A) attacker-focused
- ISASecure modular certifications (SDLA, CSA, SSA)
AS9110C
AS9110C Quality Management Systems for Aircraft Maintenance
Key Features
- Risk-based thinking for maintenance planning and operations
- Configuration management and part traceability controls
- Counterfeit and suspect parts prevention program
- Human factors integration in competence and audits
- Alignment with FAA/EASA regulatory requirements
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
IEC 62443 Details
What It Is
IEC 62443 is the ISA/IEC series of standards for cybersecurity of Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). This consensus-based framework addresses OT environments with a risk-based approach, spanning governance, risk assessment, system architecture, and product development.
Key Components
- Four groupings: General (-1), Policies (-2), System (-3), Components (-4).
- Seven foundational requirements (FR1-7) like identification, integrity, availability.
- Zones/conduits segmentation and **security levels (SL0-4)SL-T (target), SL-C (capability), SL-A (achieved).
- ISASecure certifications: SDLA (-4-1), CSA (-4-2), SSA (-3-3); maturity levels ML1-4.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates OT risks (safety, downtime) amid IIoT connectivity.
- Enables supplier qualification, procurement specs, insurance benefits.
- Builds stakeholder trust via certified assurance chain.
- Horizontal standard for cross-sector compliance.
Implementation Overview
Phased: CSMS governance (-2-1), risk assessment/segmentation (-3-2), controls (-3-3/-4-2). Applies to utilities, manufacturing; requires audits, certifications for high-assurance.
AS9110C Details
What It Is
AS9110C is the international quality management system (QMS) standard for aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations. Building on ISO 9001:2015's high-level structure, it embeds aerospace-specific controls for safety-critical processes using risk-based thinking (RBT) and PDCA cycles.
Key Components
- Clauses 4–10 covering context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement.
- Core additions: configuration management, counterfeit parts prevention, human factors, traceability, release controls.
- Emphasizes documented information, competence, and operational evidence.
- Certification via accredited registrars with internal audits prerequisite.
Why Organizations Use It
- Enables contract wins with OEMs/airlines requiring certification.
- Mitigates regulatory risks (FAA/EASA alignment) and safety incidents.
- Drives efficiency via process standardization and KPIs.
- Builds trust for supply-chain integration and market differentiation.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process mapping, training, pilots, audits, certification.
- Targets MROs globally; scalable by size.
- Requires 3+ months operational data pre-certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | IEC 62443 | AS9110C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | IACS cybersecurity lifecycle framework | Aerospace MRO quality management system |
| Industry | Industrial automation, OT sectors globally | Aviation maintenance organizations worldwide |
| Nature | Voluntary consensus cybersecurity standards | Voluntary certification QMS standard |
| Testing | ISASecure modular certifications, audits | Internal audits, management reviews, certification |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, market exclusion | Loss of certification, regulatory risks |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IEC 62443 and AS9110C
IEC 62443 FAQ
AS9110C FAQ
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