Short answer
The seven pillars of security are asset mapping, vulnerability management, firmware upgrades, device hardening, password rotation, certificate management, and end of service planning. These practices help secure physical devices connected to networks by addressing both cyber and physical risks.
Key points
- Keep an updated inventory of all devices to ensure visibility.
- Regularly update firmware to patch known security flaws.
- Harden devices by disabling unused services and changing defaults.
- Rotate passwords frequently to prevent unauthorized access.
- Plan for end-of-life devices to avoid unpatched security risks.
The seven pillars of security are asset mapping, vulnerability management, firmware upgrades, device hardening, password rotation, certificate management, and end of service planning. Together, they form a framework for securing network-connected physical devices like cameras and access controls.
Core practices for securing physical devices
Asset mapping ensures every device is known and accounted for—security starts with visibility. Vulnerability management involves regularly scanning for and fixing weaknesses before they can be exploited.
Firmware upgrades close security gaps in device software, while device hardening reduces attack surfaces by turning off unnecessary features and changing default settings. Frequent password rotation prevents breaches due to weak or default credentials.
- Asset Mapping – maintain a real-time inventory of all devices
- Vulnerability Management – identify and fix security weaknesses
- Firmware Upgrades – apply regular security patches
- Device Hardening – disable unused services and lock down configurations
- Password Rotation – change credentials regularly
- Certificate Management – secure device authentication and communications
- End of Service Planning – retire outdated devices before they become risks
Frequently asked questions
Why is asset mapping important for security?
Asset mapping ensures you know what devices are on your network. Without a complete inventory, it's impossible to protect every endpoint from potential threats.
How often should firmware be updated?
Firmware should be updated as soon as security patches are released. The frequency depends on the manufacturer, but regular checks are essential.
What does device hardening mean?
Device hardening means disabling unnecessary services, changing default passwords, and tightening configurations to reduce vulnerabilities in physical security devices.
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