Hirschmann Automotive

IN THE NEURAL SYSTEM OF VEHICLES

The globally operating automotive supplier Hirschmann Automotive relies heavily on digitalization and innovation. Rapidly growing data volumes and an increasing requirement portfolio in the security environment pose a big challenge for the IT infrastructure of Hirschmann Automotive. The implementation of Cisco SDA is a major step to ensure the required IT security.

Innovation made in Vorarlberg: Hirschmann Automotive GmbH is a globally active automotive supplier that is headquartered in Rankweil. For more than 60 years, a team of more than 7,500 employees has been shaping the mobile future with intelligent connections in the neural systems of vehicles. The responsible persons at Hirschmann Automotive consider digitalization, electromobility, and sustainability as an opportunity for growth and for differentiation. Raffael Mierer, Systems Engineer, is operating the entire network on a global basis and describes the implications of the innovation spirit on the network infrastructure: “It is the speed that puts us to the test. The biggest challenge in an innovative environment is the fast implementation of planned actions. Very often, new technologies are connected to a high implementation effort, and it is all the more important to have the right partner on your side.”

Security First with SDA

When finding a partner for the implementation of the technology Software-Defined Access (SDA), the decision was made in favor of NTS. The solution by Cisco simplifies the Enterprise Networking at Hirschmann Automotive substantially. SDA combines access security, automation and standardization and it thus covers the high demand for IT security. Manfred Högger, team leader IT infrastructure, about the security aspect: “Security is a central topic in our industry. Protection against cyber attacks is essential, especially where production facilities are concerned. As we already have had Cisco in our portfolio for quite some time, the implementation of SDA was only a logical step. The possibility for microsegmentation
for more network security was paramount.” Mierer adds: “You have to protect your networks from attacks in the best possible way. You have to be constantly with it and must always be one decisive step ahead by means of
utilization of state-of-the-art technology.”

SDA combines authentication at the endpoint, routed access, segmentation & firewall as well as microsegmentation. The individual segmentation allows a fast, company-wide implementation of virtual networks that are perfectly tailor-made for the business. The daily business is simplified as well, IT processes are getting leaner and more efficient.

FOR CERTAIN A GOOD FEELING

At manufacturing businesses, the prevention of downtime plays a significant role as well. A high availability must be guaranteed. “For us, it is of utmost importance that the operation is up and running. Technical projects must be processed rapidly,” says Mierer. “When you have to work at grass root level, meaning at the network, then it becomes complex. The maintenance window must remain minimal and when help is needed, it needs to be quick. Here, we can rely on NTS.”

NTS LENDS A HAND TOO

Mierer also mentions the NTS services favorably: “When you need expertise, the NTS team will be on the spot. Even till late at night if necessary. At NTS, they are not too shy to lend a hand when the need arises.” Högger substantiates the decision for the
choice of partners. “NTS acts as a local partner, they are always available, and they share our corporate culture. Despite that, you get the feeling that there is a large organization with a lot of expertise and experience in the background.

Technical Solution:

4-in-1 prohect

• Authentication at the endpoint
• Routed access
• Segmentation and firewall
• Microsegmentation

1,000 devices connected in the SDA (wired & wireless)
Currently 15 switches SDA enabled