IEC 62443
International standard for IACS cybersecurity lifecycle security
COBIT
Global framework for enterprise IT governance and management
Quick Verdict
IEC 62443 targets OT/IACS cybersecurity with zones, security levels and certifications, while COBIT governs enterprise IT via objectives, design factors and maturity models. OT firms adopt IEC 62443 for technical resilience; all enterprises use COBIT for strategic alignment.
IEC 62443
IEC 62443: Security for industrial automation/control systems
Key Features
- Shared-responsibility framework for owners, integrators, suppliers
- Zones and conduits model for risk-based segmentation
- Security Levels triad (SL-T, SL-C, SL-A)
- Seven Foundational Requirements across systems/components
- ISASecure modular certification for components/systems
COBIT
COBIT 2019 Governance and Management Objectives
Key Features
- 40 objectives across 5 domains (EDM, APO, BAI, DSS, MEA)
- 11 design factors for tailored governance systems
- CMMI-based capability levels 0-5 for performance management
- Goals cascade linking stakeholder needs to IT outcomes
- Separation of governance from management responsibilities
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 securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). This consensus-based framework addresses OT cybersecurity across governance, risk assessment, system architecture, and product development. It uses a risk-based approach with zones/conduits segmentation and security levels (SL 0-4).
Key Components
- Four groupings: General (-1), Policies (-2), System (-3), Components (-4).
- Seven Foundational Requirements (e.g., IAC, RDF, RA) mapped to system (SRs) and component requirements (CRs).
- SL-T (target), SL-C (capability), SL-A (achieved) triad.
- ISASecure certifications (SDLA, CSA, SSA) for modular assurance.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates OT risks like safety incidents, downtime; enables secure IIoT.
- Meets regulatory references (e.g., NIS-2, NERC CIP); reduces insurance costs.
- Builds supply chain trust via supplier SDL; competitive edge through certification.
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance (CSMS per -2-1), risk assessment (-3-2), segmentation, controls (-3-3/-4-2). Applies to critical infrastructure globally; requires OT expertise, audits for certification.
COBIT Details
What It Is
COBIT 2019, or Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology, is a comprehensive governance and management framework developed by ISACA for enterprise information and technology (I&T). Its primary purpose is to help organizations create value from I&T, manage risk, and optimize resources by translating stakeholder needs into actionable objectives via a tailored governance system. It employs a design-factor-driven approach with principles, objectives, and performance management.
Key Components
- 40 governance and management objectives grouped into **five domainsEDM (governance), APO (strategy), BAI (delivery), DSS (operations), MEA (assurance).
- Six governance system principles and seven components (processes, structures, etc.).
- 11 design factors for tailoring; CMMI-based capability levels (0-5) for performance.
- No formal certification; compliance via assessments and audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Aligns I&T with business goals for value and agility.
- Supports compliance (SOX, GDPR) and risk optimization.
- Enhances assurance, reduces incidents, builds stakeholder trust.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: assess, design (goals cascade), pilot, operate, improve.
- Applies to all sizes/industries; training via ISACA certificates essential.
Key Differences
| Aspect | IEC 62443 | COBIT |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | IACS/OT cybersecurity lifecycle | Enterprise I&T governance/management |
| Industry | Industrial sectors (OT/IACS) | All industries (enterprise-wide) |
| Nature | Technical standard series | Governance framework |
| Testing | ISASecure modular certification | Capability/maturity assessments |
| Penalties | No legal penalties | No legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IEC 62443 and COBIT
IEC 62443 FAQ
COBIT FAQ
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