Security in PLC devices
Are dangerous PLC devices with Wi-Fi? We can say that they are not by themselves, but they do have greater risks. Ultimately, wireless connections are always more risky. It is what happens simply with the router. If you connect your devices by cable, a neighbor could not do anything while you have the wireless network disabled. On the other hand, through Wi-Fi, intruders could enter.
This brings us to the scenario where Wi-Fi enabled PLC devices can be a problem if we don’t take certain precautions. For example, they are a risk if you do not use good passwords or do not keep them up to date. There are vulnerabilities that could allow an attacker to exploit them. If you have an old model and without updating, you could have problems.
That will not happen if you use models that only have ethernet port. You are simply going to connect a television or computer to those devices and that’s it. There’s not going to be a wireless network available for them to exploit. Therefore, in that sense, PLCs that do not have Wi-Fi are more secure.
But this is normally not going to interest us. Although it is true that we can use devices connected by Ethernet cable, most devices connect via Wi-Fi. For example, mobile phones, smart bulbs and many other IoT devices that you have at home. This means that the ideal is to have PLC devices that allow us to connect both by Wi-Fi and by cable and that is where the risk can begin.
Tips to always improve security
Can we do something to improve security and avoid problems? It is important that you review some security aspects of this type of device. The first thing is from the purchase itself. We recommend that you choose models that are guaranteed, that work well and never put security at risk. You can always inform yourself on the net. You should always choose good Wi-Fi PLCs.
Another important point is keep PLC devices up to date. This will prevent vulnerabilities and you may have problems in case an attacker tries to gain access. It is a good idea to always check that you have your devices updated, but especially those that connect to the network.
In addition, have good passwords It will help you avoid many problems. It is the main barrier that can keep intruders out. Always use reliable passwords that really protect you. It is essential not to use the typical passwords that can become a problem.
In short, as you can see, there are PLC devices with Wi-Fi and also models that only allow us to connect via cable. The latter, due to their own technology, will have fewer risks. But that does not mean that the others are insecure, as long as you review what we have explained.
