WCAG
Global standard for accessible web content and interfaces
IEC 62443
International standard for IACS cybersecurity lifecycle.
Quick Verdict
WCAG ensures web accessibility for disabled users via testable criteria like POUR, adopted for legal compliance and inclusivity. IEC 62443 secures industrial control systems through zones, SLs, and CSMS, used for OT risk management and safety.
WCAG
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1
Key Features
- Testable success criteria at A/AA/AAA conformance levels
- POUR principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust
- Technology-agnostic for all web content and platforms
- Backward-compatible additive versions preserving stability
- Full pages and complete processes conformance scope
IEC 62443
IEC 62443: IACS Security Standards Series
Key Features
- Zones and conduits segmentation model
- Security Levels SL-T, SL-C, SL-A triad
- Shared responsibility across stakeholders
- Seven Foundational Requirements FR1-7
- ISASecure modular certifications
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
WCAG Details
What It Is
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 is the W3C's technology-agnostic framework for web accessibility. It defines testable success criteria to make content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for people with disabilities. Structured as a layered model with principles, guidelines, and criteria.
Key Components
- **POUR principlesPerceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust.
- 13 guidelines under POUR, ~80 success criteria at A/AA/AAA levels.
- Informative techniques, failures, and understanding documents.
- Conformance requires full pages, complete processes, accessibility-supported tech, non-interference.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets legal benchmarks (ADA, Section 508, EN 301 549).
- Reduces litigation risk and procurement barriers.
- Enhances UX, conversion rates, market reach for 1B+ disabled users.
- Builds stakeholder trust via inclusive design.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: assessment, policy, training, remediation via design systems/CI tools, audits. Applies universally to web-owning orgs; no formal certification but VPATs/audits common. Targets AA level for balance.
IEC 62443 Details
What It Is
IEC 62443 (ISA/IEC 62443 series) is an international consensus-based framework for cybersecurity in Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). It 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 authentication, integrity, data flow.
- Zones/conduits segmentation and **Security Levels (SL0-4)SL-T (target), SL-C (capability), SL-A (achieved).
- ISASecure certifications (SDLA, CSA, SSA) for modular compliance.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates OT risks (safety, downtime) amid connectivity growth.
- Meets regulatory references (e.g., NIS-2, NERC CIP) and supply chain demands.
- Enables procurement assurance, insurance benefits, market differentiation.
- Builds stakeholder trust via certified lifecycle security.
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance (2-1 CSMS), risk assessment (3-2), controls (3-3/4-2), certification. Applies to critical infrastructure globally; suits all sizes via maturity levels (ML1-4). Requires audits, training.
Key Differences
| Aspect | WCAG | IEC 62443 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Web content accessibility for disabilities | IACS/OT cybersecurity lifecycle and requirements |
| Industry | All web-publishing sectors globally | Industrial automation, critical infrastructure |
| Nature | Voluntary W3C technical guidelines | Consensus-based cybersecurity standards series |
| Testing | Automated/manual/AT/user testing, audits | Risk assessments, SL validation, certifications |
| Penalties | Litigation risk, no direct penalties | Regulatory/contractual non-compliance risks |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about WCAG and IEC 62443
WCAG FAQ
IEC 62443 FAQ
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