Digitalization makes buildings smarter, more efficient, and more comfortable. But with increased connectivity comes a greater vulnerability to cyberattacks. Building automation is no longer an isolated system—it is part of the corporate network and often even connected to the cloud. This brings enormous advantages, but also new risks. In this article, we highlight the threats and show how operators can protect their systems.
Why cybersecurity is so important in building automation
Modern building automation controls critical functions such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and security systems. A successful attack can not only compromise data, but also paralyze operations—with serious consequences for comfort, safety, and costs.
The danger is real: studies show that over 60% of building automation systems have vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Systems that communicate via open protocols such as BACnet or Modbus without additional security mechanisms are particularly at risk.
Typical risks and attack scenarios
- Unencrypted communication
Many traditional protocols such as BACnet or Modbus transmit data in plain text. Attackers can intercept and manipulate this data. - Lack of authentication
Devices often accept commands without verifying the sender’s identity—a gateway for manipulation. - Outdated firmware and software
Updates that have not been installed open the door to hackers. - Insecure interfaces to IT networks
If building automation and corporate IT are not clearly separated, an attack on the company network can also compromise building automation.
Solutions for greater security
An important step toward greater security in building automation is consistent network segmentation. This involves clearly separating the automation network from the company network so that sensitive building components are not unnecessarily exposed. Firewalls and VLANs also help to control access in a targeted manner and only allow authorized connections.
The use of secure protocols and encryption technologies is equally crucial. Modern standards such as BACnet Secure Connect (BACnet/SC) offer integrated security features. Existing systems can be secured using VPN tunnels or TLS encryption to ensure that data is transmitted securely.
Another key element is clear authentication and role management. User accounts should have differentiated roles and permissions to ensure that only authorized persons are granted access. Standard passwords should always be avoided and replaced with strong, individual access data.
Regular updates and security patches are also essential. Up-to-date firmware and software close known vulnerabilities and reduce the risk of attacks. Automated update processes can help to fix security gaps more quickly and minimize the effort required by operators.
Finally, continuous monitoring with intrusion detection increases system security. By monitoring network traffic, unusual activities can be detected at an early stage. Modern solutions even offer automatic anomaly detection and alerting functions, allowing operators to react immediately if something unusual happens.
Cybersecurity and SE-Elektronic – Practical solutions
SE-Elektronic consistently relies on integrated security mechanisms in the development of our automation platforms to make building automation reliable and future-proof. A key component is encrypted communication between F-Bus gateways and higher-level systems. This prevents data from being transmitted in plain text and intercepted or manipulated by unauthorized persons. In addition, secure interfaces for integration into open standards such as BACnet/IP or Modbus TCP ensure that the connection to other systems does not become a gateway for attacks.
Another important component is centralized update management for all components. Security vulnerabilities often arise from outdated firmware or software—manufacturers counter this risk with a solution that automatically and controllably installs updates. This keeps all devices up to date and quickly closes potential vulnerabilities.
With these measures, SE-Elektronic ensures that building automation does not become a security risk, but remains a reliable component of the digital infrastructure. Operators benefit from a robust, secure, and flexible solution that meets the requirements of modern smart buildings.
Conclusion: Safety is not an extra, but a requirement
Cybersecurity in building automation is not a “nice-to-have” but a basic requirement for the safe operation of modern buildings. Those who focus on secure protocols, network segmentation, and continuous updates at an early stage not only protect their systems but also the people who use them.
If you would like to gain a deeper understanding of how secure building automation works in practice and what role modern communication standards play in this, it is worth taking a look at our in-depth article on BACnet and secure protocols in smart buildings. There you will learn how open systems can remain both powerful and protected—and how robust security concepts can be implemented effectively.
