Critical infrastructure is the network of essential systems and assets that offer functions required to streamline operations. According to CISA, there are 16 critical infrastructure sectors. The assets, networks, and systems of these sectors, whether physical or virtual, are considered critical in the United States. Any sophisticated cyberattack on these assets can cripple the necessary operations resulting in significant economic and security consequences.
According to the World Economic Forum, critical infrastructure is the main target of cybercriminals. Healthcare and financial services are one of the most common sectors attacked by malicious actors. These sectors accounted for 14.2% and 8.3% of all attacks targeting critical infrastructure.
Malicious actors are constantly on the lookout for attacking critical infrastructures as they are very lucrative modes to accomplish their malicious activities. It is crucial to secure these critical infrastructures to minimize the risks associated with these attacks. There are various players in the critical infrastructure protection market that help businesses and governments to safeguard their critical assets.
According to a report by Extrapolate, the global critical infrastructure protection (CIP) market size is projected to reach USD 172.32 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 6.21% between 2023 and 2030.
As the cybercrime landscape is becoming increasingly sophisticated, the demand for securing critical infrastructure also rises. In this blog, we will have a look at the top 10 companies in the critical infrastructure protection market.
10 Best Critical Infrastructure Protection Vendors
Given below is the list of the top 10 companies that protect critical infrastructure sectors from severe cyber attacks and threats:
1. BAE Systems
BAE Systems offers a range of critical infrastructure protection technologies and services. These services are designed to safeguard essential systems and assets from physical and cyber threats. BAE Systems provides consulting services that include risk assessments and security audits tailored to the specific needs of critical infrastructure operators. Their solutions address the diverse threats critical infrastructure sectors face. Video surveillance systems, access control, and perimeter security technologies are a few of the physical security solutions that the company offers to its customers.
2. Thales
Thales is a key player in the critical infrastructure protection market. The company offers a range of tools and services designed to secure vital infrastructures across various sectors. Their solutions are tailored to address the unique challenges posed by different operational environments, ensuring the safety and resilience of critical assets.
Recognizing the increasing threats in the digital landscape, Thales offers robust cybersecurity services. These include encryption technologies, threat intelligence, and incident response strategies. They are aimed at safeguarding sensitive data and critical systems from cyberattacks. Thales focuses on enhancing the operational resilience of critical infrastructures. It ensures continuity of operations even in the face of disruptions, whether from natural disasters or malicious attacks.
3. Lockheed Martin Corporation
Lockheed Martin provides advanced cybersecurity services that focus on protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats. Threat intelligence, incident response, and vulnerability assessments are a few services the company provides to its clients for safeguarding sensitive data and operational technology. Their services are widely used in sectors such as energy, transportation, and communications.
Lockheed Martin offers integrated security platforms that combine both cybersecurity and physical security measures. This holistic approach allows for better monitoring and management of security incidents. The company provides a comprehensive defense strategy for critical infrastructure. It assists organizations in navigating regulatory requirements and implementing best practices to enhance their security posture. Utilizing advanced analytics and artificial intelligence, Lockheed Martin enhances situational awareness and threat detection capabilities.
4. Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, commonly known as Ericsson, is a well-known player in the telecommunications sector. It provides a vast range of tools and services that contribute significantly to critical infrastructure protection. Their offerings are essential for safeguarding vital communication networks and ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure.
With the rollout of 5G technology, Ericsson plays a pivotal role in enhancing the security and reliability of critical infrastructure. 5G networks provide improved connectivity and lower latency. This is essential for real-time monitoring and management of critical systems. Hence, their critical infrastructure products are widely used to secure power grids and transportation networks.
Ericsson collaborates with governments and various industries to develop standards and frameworks for critical infrastructure protection. This collaboration helps in creating robust security protocols that are essential for protecting national and global infrastructure.
5. General Dynamics Corporation
General Dynamics Corporation is at the forefront of the critical infrastructure protection market, providing a range of tools and services designed to protect essential assets and systems. Defense, energy, and transportation are a few sectors that General Dynamics offers its services to protect its critical infrastructure. The company develops sophisticated surveillance technologies that enhance situational awareness for critical infrastructure operators.
Their services also extend to emergency preparedness and response planning. These services help organizations develop strategies to mitigate risks and respond effectively to incidents that could impact critical infrastructure. General Dynamics Corporation significantly contributes to the resilience and security of essential services that societies rely on.
6. Hexagon AB
Hexagon AB provides a range of tools and services designed to enhance the security and resilience of critical assets and systems. Their offerings are particularly focused on integrating advanced technologies to safeguard essential infrastructure. The company specializes in geospatial technology. This technology is crucial for mapping and monitoring critical infrastructure.
Solutions offered by Hexagon AB enable organizations to visualize and analyze data related to infrastructure, helping in risk assessment and management. The tools offered by Hexagon AB also focus on data management and analytics, allowing organizations to harness large volumes of data for better decision-making and operational efficiency. This is particularly important for monitoring infrastructure health and predicting potential failures.
7. Airbus SAS
Airbus develops sophisticated security solutions that integrate various technologies to protect critical infrastructure. This includes surveillance systems, cybersecurity measures, and risk management tools that are essential for safeguarding critical assets against a range of threats.
Airbus SAS services are designed to protect against cyber threats that can compromise the integrity and availability of essential systems. It provides integrated command and control systems that enable real-time monitoring and management of critical infrastructure. Airbus SAS plays a crucial role in the CIP market by providing innovative solutions that address the complex challenges faced by critical infrastructure sectors. The company ensures their clients remain secure and resilient against evolving threats
8. General Electric
General Electric (GE) offers cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions tailored for critical infrastructure sectors, particularly in energy and utilities. These solutions protect critical assets against cyber threats that could disrupt operations or compromise sensitive data. GE's cybersecurity framework aligns with industry standards, ensuring compliance and robust protection for critical assets.
GE provides tools that enable real-time monitoring and analytics of critical infrastructure systems. This technology helps in identifying vulnerabilities and potential threats, allowing for proactive measures to be taken before incidents occur. The integration of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) enhances operational efficiency while ensuring security.
9. Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls assists organizations in navigating the complex landscape of regulations related to critical infrastructure protection. The company ensures compliance with standards such as NERC CIP, which governs the security of North America's Bulk Electric System.
The company provides consulting services to assess vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and develop tailored protection strategies. This includes identifying potential threats and implementing measures to enhance resilience against various risks.
10. RTX Corporation
RTX Corporation, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, focuses on developing robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure from sophisticated cyber threats.
The company also offers training programs for personnel to enhance their awareness and preparedness against potential threats. This is vital for maintaining a robust security posture in critical infrastructure sectors. By leveraging its expertise in technology and defense, RTX Corporation ensures the safety and reliability of essential services that underpin modern society.
In Conclusion
Critical infrastructure protection is an essential component to secure crucial infrastructure such as industrial units, energy and utility organizations, ports, airports, transport networks, and others. These sectors are constantly attacked by cyber criminals to accomplish their malicious goals. The above-mentioned top 10 companies in the critical infrastructure protection market help businesses protect their crucial assets from sophisticated cyber attacks that can cripple the entire business operations.
