IEC 62443
International standard for IACS cybersecurity frameworks
ISO 30301
International standard for records management systems
Quick Verdict
IEC 62443 secures industrial control systems via risk-based cybersecurity, while ISO 30301 governs records management for evidence and compliance. Companies adopt IEC 62443 for OT protection and ISO 30301 for auditable governance across operations.
IEC 62443
IEC 62443: IACS Cybersecurity Standards Series
Key Features
- Risk-based zones and conduits segmentation model
- Security levels SL-T, SL-C, SL-A triad
- Shared responsibility across stakeholders model
- Seven foundational requirements FR1-FR7 taxonomy
- ISASecure modular certifications for components
ISO 30301
ISO 30301:2019 Management systems for records requirements
Key Features
- High-Level Structure alignment for MSS integration
- Normative operational controls in Clause 8 and Annex A
- Explicit records requirements (Clause 4.1.2)
- Flexible conformity pathways including certification
- Top management accountability and risk-based planning
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 international series of standards for securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). This consensus-based framework addresses OT cybersecurity across the lifecycle, using 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 (FR1-7) mapped to system (SRs) and component requirements (CRs).
- SL-T (target), SL-C (capability), SL-A (achieved) triad.
- ISASecure certifications: SDLA (-4-1), CSA (-4-2), SSA (-3-3).
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates OT risks like safety incidents and downtime.
- Meets regulatory references (e.g., NIS-2) and supply chain demands.
- Enables procurement assurance and insurance benefits.
- Builds stakeholder trust via certified maturity (ML1-4).
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance (CSMS -2-1), risk assessment (-3-2), controls (-3-3/-4-2), certification. Applies to critical infrastructure globally; requires OT expertise, audits for high-maturity.
ISO 30301 Details
What It Is
ISO 30301:2019 is the international standard specifying requirements for a Management System for Records (MSR). It provides a certifiable framework to establish, implement, maintain, and improve records processes ensuring authoritative, reliable evidence of business activities. Applicable to any organization, it uses a risk-based, PDCA management system approach aligned with the High-Level Structure (HLS).
Key Components
- HLS clauses 4–10 covering context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement.
- Clause 8 and Annex A (normative) for records lifecycle controls (creation, capture, access, retention, disposition).
- Core principles: authenticity, reliability, integrity, usability.
- Flexible conformity: self-declaration, external confirmation, third-party certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Ensures compliance with legal/regulatory records obligations.
- Mitigates risks like evidence loss, litigation, non-compliance.
- Boosts efficiency, transparency, business continuity.
- Builds stakeholder trust via auditable governance.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, policy design, operational controls, audits.
- Suits all sizes/industries; integrates with ISO 9001/27001.
- Involves training, system integration, internal audits.
Key Differences
| Aspect | IEC 62443 | ISO 30301 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | IACS/OT cybersecurity lifecycle | Records management system governance |
| Industry | Industrial sectors (energy, manufacturing) | All organizations, any sector |
| Nature | Voluntary consensus standard | Voluntary certifiable requirements |
| Testing | ISASecure modular certifications | Internal audits, management reviews |
| Penalties | Loss of certification | Loss of certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IEC 62443 and ISO 30301
IEC 62443 FAQ
ISO 30301 FAQ
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