Top 8 IoT Security Solutions in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Team Bytebeam

Nov 17, 2023 • 11 min read

Innovation has predominantly been focused on smartphones in recent years. However, the limelight is slowly shifting toward the other factors and devices of the Internet of Things (IoT). ConsumersBy the end of 2020, there could be nearly 5.8 billion enterprise and automotive IoT devices in use, with utility IoT devices witnessing an impressive 17% growth in adoption compared to the previous year.

The North American IoT market is predicted to reach a staggering $500 billion by 2022. As IoT becomes more accessible to businesses and their customers, we expect to see an influx of innovative and groundbreaking IoT pr0ducts.

However, despite the immense advantages that IoT devices provide, they also have significant vulnerabilities when it comes to cyberattacks. Security researchers report that fraud and cybercrime are rising in 2020, with as many as 57% of IoT devices being susceptible to medium or high-level attacks.

This combination seriously threatens consumers' privacy, as evidenced by the Singapore incident where hackers stole and distributed private home security camera footage. For enterprises and corporations, a compromised IoT device could result in severe and life-threatening consequences to their mission-critical operations.

In this blog, we’ll discuss what IoT security tools are and the best solutions you can try in 2024.

The Vulnerability of IoT Devices: Why You Should Take Notice

IoT devices are becoming increasingly attractive targets for cybercriminals. For several reasons, they are more vulnerable than servers, routers, and other endpoint devices.

Firstly, there is a lack of standardization and regulation around IoT security. Many IoT devices lack the hardware capacity to support robust cybersecurity applications.

Human error is also a contributing factor, compounded by the fact that many end-users and operators are still unfamiliar with IoT technology. For example, if an end-user does not configure their IoT device properly, it could lead to security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.

Similarly, if an operator does not have the necessary skills and knowledge to troubleshoot an IoT system, they may not be able to identify and fix issues that arise.

Furthermore, IoT devices can be complex and interconnected, and one mistake can have a ripple effect that impacts the entire system. For example, if an end-user inadvertently sets up an IoT device to send data to the wrong location, it could cause a data breach that affects multiple stakeholders.

Another critical consideration is that IoT devices connected to sensitive or essential operations of a corporate, industrial, or security context can represent high-value targets for malicious actors. Sophisticated cybercriminals can launch attacks that have the potential to cause significant damage or incur substantial costs.

Now, let’s explore IoT security tools that can help you protect your IoT devices.

What are IoT Security Solutions?

Internet of Things (IoT) security solutions are tools, technologies, and practices that are designed to safeguard IoT devices and the networks they connect to from various threats and vulnerabilities. As the IoT ecosystem continues to expand, with billions of devices being interconnected, the potential for security breaches, data theft, and malicious attacks has also increased. Therefore, robust security solutions are imperative to maintain trust and functionality within the IoT landscape.

1. Forescout Platform

Forescout has become a popular name in the IoT security segment. Their flagship solution for securing the Enterprise of Things embraces zero trust principles, incorporating measures like micro-perimeters, obfuscation techniques, and finely-tuned user access privileges.

Forescout's IoT Security solution also provides features like

Behavior-Based Policies: Dynamic, behavior-based policies for segmenting IoT devices by the network.
Mitigating Risk: Mitigating risk across the hybrid infrastructure, offering specialized expertise in securing unmanaged services, IoMT devices, and all IP-connected systems.
Agentless Monitoring: Agentless monitoring for all physical and virtual IP-connected devices.
Library of Device Risk Profiles: It gives you access to a massive library of device risk profiles.

2. SecuriThings Horizon

SecuriThings' Horizon solution provides essential protection against various security threats for facilities that rely on IoT networks to keep their operations running smoothly.

Security Solution for High-Risk Areas: They operate in airports, banks, or corporate campuses
Protection Against Various Threats: Horizon safeguards against malware, botnets, brute force attacks, internal sabotage, and more
Endpoint Risk Detection: It offers endpoint risk detection and includes predictive monitoring and maintenance capabilities
Automated Mitigation Tools: It also includes automated mitigation tools that quickly neutralize detected threats.

Their approach to security allows for faster response times and more effective threat detection, ultimately improving the overall security posture of the facility.

3. Tempered Airwall

Tempered's Airwall is a user-friendly and highly flexible solution that offers robust security for hospitals and other facilities seeking to safeguard their IoT networks.

Flexible Deployment Options: It can be deployed in a physical, remote, cloud, or virtual network
Comprehensive Protection: Airwall can be easily deployed to protect against security threats.
Identity and Permission Controls: It offers powerful identity and permission controls, allowing you to enforce security policies that effectively prevent unauthorized access.
Trusted Identity and Access Management: Airwall ensures that only authorized individuals can access your network and its sensitive data.

4. Palo Alto Networks

Palo Alto Networks' IoT security solution provides comprehensive protection for offices, data centers, and other facilities that rely on IoT networks to keep their operations running smoothly.

Comprehensive Security Features: The solution leverages a turnkey package that includes hardware-based and virtual firewalls, device identification tools, and other advanced security features.
IoT Device Protection: The solution helps organizations safeguard their devices against hostile traffic and attempted breaches.
Device Identification and Security: The solution can identify and secure all the devices on the network, whether managed or unmanaged.
Protection Against Security Threats: The solution ensures that all potential entry points are fully protected against security threats.

5. Broadcom

As a popular name in the IT industry, Broadcom Symantec has established a reputation for network infrastructure and cybersecurity.

Integrated Cyber Defense Security Bundles: All-in-one solution to monitor and secure IoT devices that brings together XDR, SASE, and Zero trust
Symantec ICS Protection: Provides organizations with an enforcement driver, offers them advanced machine learning capabilities and threat intelligence to address unique risks associated with IoT deployment
Symantec CSP: Offers applications that allow listing, system hardening, and anti-exploit techniques and ensure IoT devices are fully protected against security threats
Broadcom's IoT Security Solutions: Location hub microcontroller and SoC systems for embedded IoT security

This solution is useful for organizations involved in product manufacturing. It offers Global threat intelligence to inform endpoint policies and provisioning, ensuring organizations stay ahead of emerging security threats.

6. Armis

Armis specializes in protecting critical healthcare, utilities, and manufacturing assets. Their agentless device security solution begins with a comprehensive inventory of all connected assets before scanning all data traffic to and from these devices.

Automated Security Policies: Armis can identify vulnerabilities, execute automated security policies, and continuously monitor managed and unmanaged devices.
Security Solution for High-Risk Industries: Armis's device security solution is particularly beneficial for organizations in high-risk industries where critical assets are a primary concern.
Device Security without Performance Impact: Armis ensures that devices are secure without impacting their performance or availability.
Real-Time Protection and Threat Identification: Armis delivers real-time protection, identifies threats before they can do damage, and maintain the highest level of security for all devices in the network.

Overall, Armis's innovative approach to device security is a good option for organizations that must safeguard their critical assets.

7. Trustwave

Trustwave provides comprehensive IoT security solutions for implementers and manufacturers, with software and applications designed to monitor devices and extend protection to hardware components.

Managed IoT Monitoring and Security Testing: Their managed IoT monitoring and security testing services help implementers validate embedded systems.
IoT Product Testing for Product Developers and Manufacturers: Product developers and manufacturers can use Trustwave's IoT product testing to identify vulnerabilities and develop effective incident response strategies.
Comprehensive IoT Security Solutions: Trustwave's IoT security solutions provide comprehensive protection for IoT devices and embedded hardware, with a range of services designed to meet the needs of both implementers and manufacturers.

With its personalized approach, cutting-edge technology, and expert support, Trustwave is a trusted partner for any organization seeking to secure its IoT network.

8. Atonomi

Atonomi Network offers a unique IoT security solution based on blockchain technology.

Behavior Monitoring and Secure Transactions: It provides unalterable identities for network assets and monitors the behavior of connected devices, allowing for secure transactions across various platforms.
Ensuring Safety and Security of Connected Devices: Whether for small-scale projects like smart homes or cars or more extensive systems like healthcare and industrial facilities, Atonomi Network's solution is designed to ensure the safety and security of connected devices.

IoT devices: risks and vulnerabilities

IoT devices face a myriad of risks and vulnerabilities, stemming from both their diverse range and the often less rigorous security measures applied to them compared to traditional computing devices. Here's an overview of some common risks and vulnerabilities:

Weak Passwords and Default Credentials: Many devices come with default usernames and passwords that users don't change, making them easy targets for attackers.
Lack of Secure Update Mechanisms: Some IoT devices don't have a mechanism to be updated or, if they do, it's not secured. This means they can't receive patches for vulnerabilities and might be exposed to attacks if the update process is hijacked.
Insecure Data Transmission: Devices that don't encrypt their data when sending or receiving can expose sensitive information to eavesdroppers or man-in-the-middle attacks.
Physical Tampering: Given that many IoT devices might be outside or easily accessible, there's a risk of physical attacks, including device manipulation or data theft directly from the device.
Insecure Network Services: Open ports and unnecessary services running can expose the device to network attacks.
Poor Software Design: Many IoT devices are rushed to market with software that hasn't been rigorously tested, leading to vulnerabilities.
Lack of Privacy Measures: Some IoT devices collect vast amounts of data without proper privacy controls, potentially exposing personal user information.
Inadequate Network Segregation: IoT devices, when connected to larger networks, might not be properly segregated, potentially giving attackers access to broader network resources once a single device is compromised.
Long Device Lifespan Without Support: IoT devices might remain functional long after they've stopped receiving updates or support, leaving them vulnerable in the long term.
Lack of Security Standards: The IoT landscape is vast and varied, and there's a lack of universally accepted security standards and practices for devices, leading to inconsistency in security measures.
Embedded and Unchangeable Credentials: Some devices have credentials embedded in the firmware that can't be changed, making them permanently vulnerable if those credentials are discovered.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: A device might be secure as designed, but vulnerabilities can be introduced during manufacturing or distribution.
Resource Limitations: Many IoT devices are resource-constrained (limited CPU, memory, etc.) and might not have the capability to run complex security protocols or software.

These vulnerabilities highlight the importance of considering IoT security threats and solutions at every stage of IoT device design, deployment, and maintenance. Given the rapid growth and integration of IoT devices into daily life and critical infrastructure, addressing these challenges with IoT security products is crucial.

Considerations for choosing an IoT security solution

Before choosing an IoT security solution, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure that the selected solution is effective, scalable, and suitable for the specific IoT environment in question. Here's what to consider:

Compatibility: The security solution should be compatible with the range of devices, operating systems, and communication protocols in your IoT ecosystem. It should seamlessly integrate without causing disruptions.
Scalability: As your IoT network grows, the security solution should be able to accommodate an increasing number of devices without performance degradation.
Comprehensive Protection: Choose a solution that offers end-to-end protection, including device authentication, data encryption, secure boot, and intrusion detection.
Usability and Management: A user-friendly interface can be crucial. The solution should offer centralized management and monitoring, allowing for quick detection and response to threats.
Real-time Monitoring and Alerting: The ability to monitor devices and network traffic in real-time and send instant alerts on suspicious activities is crucial for rapid incident response.
Update and Patch Management: Ensure the solution supports secure and efficient over-the-air (OTA) updates to address vulnerabilities and keep devices secure over their lifecycle.
Data Privacy Features: With data privacy regulations becoming stricter, the solution should offer features that help maintain data privacy, like data masking, encryption, and proper data storage practices.
Interoperability: Since IoT environments often involve multi-vendor solutions, your security solution should work seamlessly with other systems, devices, and applications.
Lifecycle Management: Consider solutions that provide security throughout the device's lifecycle, from manufacturing and deployment to decommissioning.
Compliance: Ensure the solution adheres to relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements. This is especially important in sectors like healthcare, automotive, and critical infrastructure.
Performance Overhead: The solution shouldn't introduce significant latency or reduce the performance of the devices. Especially for resource-constrained devices, the security protocols must be lightweight.
Vendor Reputation and Support: Evaluate the track record of the solution provider. Ensure they have a good reputation in the industry, offer robust support, and have experience in addressing IoT-specific threats.
Cost: Beyond the initial cost, consider the total cost of ownership, which includes maintenance, updates, and potential future scalability needs.
Customizability: Depending on the specificity of your environment, having a solution that can be tailored to your unique needs might be valuable.
Physical Security: If your IoT deployment has physical security concerns, the solution should offer mechanisms like tamper detection and self-destruction of data upon tampering.

Making the right choice involves a balance of the above factors, tailored to your specific requirements, and often requires a combination of solutions rather than relying on a single product. Proper research, vendor discussions, and pilot testing can further aid in making an informed decision.

Wrapping Up

Selecting the right IoT security solution is crucial for businesses that want to protect their devices from cyber-attacks. With numerous options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best solution that meets your specific needs.

The choice of an IoT security solution may vary depending on your business and its requirements. But you need a solid foundation to improve your security solution.

The right IoT platform, such as Bytebeam, can help you establish a strong foundation with secure protocols and data management. Bytebeam offers various custom features and security development opportunities, ensuring businesses can tailor their security measures to specific requirements.

Bytebeam is an IoT platform that empowers businesses to develop, deploy, and manage IoT solutions. It provides robust, basic security requirements within its framework to safeguard IoT devices and their data, such as:

End-to-end encryption
Access control
Secure device management
Threat detection and response
Compliance and auditing

Bytebeam also enables customized security development on its platform, catering to the unique challenges and use cases across different industries.

Bytebeam's security measures focus on proactive threat detection, automated remediation, and compliance management, making it an ideal solution for businesses that want a flexible solution with additional integrations. Additionally, Bytebeam's solutions are scalable and can quickly adapt to the growing needs of a business.

Invest in Bytebeam today and get access to a comprehensive and customizable IoT platform tailored to your specific requirements.

Click here to know more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is IoT security important?

IoT security is important because, without it, hackers could misuse our smart devices, like turning security cameras against us or unlocking smart doors. It's like ensuring the locks on your home are strong so no one breaks in.

What are IoT security solutions?

IoT security solutions are tools and methods to protect smart devices from hackers. This includes strong passwords, encryption (coding messages), and regular updates. Think of them as advanced locks and alarms for your digital gadgets.

What are the best practices for IoT security?

Best practices for IoT security include using strong, unique passwords, regularly updating device software, disabling unused features, and ensuring data is encrypted. It's like locking your house, updating locks, and not leaving windows open.