Crypto Quantique, a provider of quantum-driven IoT security, has announced a collaboration with ADLINK Technology, aimed at simplifying the secure boot process for industrial PCs (IPCs) via its QuarkLink security platform.
Secure boot is essential for ensuring the security and integrity of connected devices, verifying that only authorised and trusted software runs on IPCs. However, the implementation of secure boot can be complex and resource-heavy, particularly when time and resources are constrained. Typically, the process involves meticulous management of cryptographic keys, verification of firmware authenticity, and safeguarding against unauthorised modifications, even with physical access to a device.
The QuarkLink security platform addresses these complexities by automating and simplifying the entire secure boot process. With QuarkLink, firmware teams can efficiently manage the generation, distribution, and storage of secure boot keys, creating a zero-touch, zero-trust environment that significantly lowers the risk of security vulnerabilities.
Integrating QuarkLink into ADLINK’s IPCs brings further advantages for the security management throughout the device lifecycle. ADLINK can now automatically generate and securely store cryptographic keys during the manufacturing process, transferring them to end-users through a secure and authenticated process. This eliminates the risks associated with manual key handling and ensures that only trusted firmware is executed on the devices. End-users can effortlessly verify the authenticity of their IPCs and securely onboard them to their networks. The platform also supports secure over-the-air updates, device attestation, and certificate renewal, ensuring the devices remain secure throughout their lifespan.
“QuarkLink is the most comprehensive, streamlined approach to end-to-end device security for industrial PCs that we have seen. It consolidates and automates numerous critical device security functions for both OEMs and end users that must otherwise be managed manually within a complex ecosystem. Such a manual approach is too expensive and high risk for any company that understands the evolving security landscape,” said Henri Parmentier, Senior Product Manager, Computer-on-Modules BU, ADLINK.
The QuarkLink platform is designed to meet and exceed the stringent security requirements of regulations such as the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), CE Mark, and ISO 62443. By adopting QuarkLink, ADLINK ensures compliance with these standards, offering peace of mind to customers in highly regulated sectors including healthcare, industrial automation, and critical infrastructure.
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