CIMCO Reveals OT-Max: A Breakthrough in Machine Tool Cybersecurity

In an exclusive interview with MCADCAfe.com, CIMCO has unveiled its latest innovation, OT-Max, a groundbreaking device designed to secure communication between machine tools and corporate networks. This announcement was made by Jens Christophliemke, CEO of INC-MEDIALINE GmbH, the developer of OT-Max, and Jody Romanowski, CEO of CIMCO Americas, during the IMTS Conference.

Increasing cybersecurity threats

CIMCO A/S is the exclusive distributor of OT-Max and has been addressing the increasing cybersecurity threats faced by manufacturers. Their well-known software, DNC-Max, facilitates data transfer between machine tools and networks but has encountered increasing challenges due to the unencrypted protocols used by many CNC machines.

Romanowski explained the issue: “We often face problems at customer sites because machines use outdated protocols that IT departments cannot allow due to regulatory or security concerns. OT-Max solves these problems by creating a secure communication gateway.”

Unlike traditional firewalls, OT-Max tackles the root problem. Christophliemke elaborated, “Firewalls can’t secure the outdated machine-specific protocols still in use today. OT-Max, however, understands these protocols—whether from FANUC, Siemens, or others—and converts them into secure, encrypted protocols for the company network.”

By isolating machine tools from the customer’s network, OT-Max effectively eliminates security concerns. Christophliemke added, “It’s unique because 99% of the machines on shop floors worldwide use insecure protocols. This device ensures complete protection.”

Staying ahead of evolving cybersecurity demands

With global regulations tightening, particularly with the new NIS2 law in Europe, solutions like OT-Max are becoming essential. The law mandates that any machine with an outdated or insecure protocol cannot be connected to a network without the necessary cybersecurity measures.

Romanowski also highlighted how OT-Max integrates seamlessly with CIMCO’s existing DNC-Max software. “We’ve developed an API that allows DNC-Max to securely communicate with the OT-Max device, ensuring no insecure data reaches the customer’s network,” she said.

Both executives emphasized the importance of staying ahead of evolving cybersecurity demands, with governments increasingly requiring certifications like CMMC for contractors and their subcontractors. “This is just the beginning,” Romanowski noted. “Manufacturers in sectors like aerospace and medical are leading the way, but soon, these requirements will apply to everyone.”

OT-Max stands out as a unique solution in the market, setting CIMCO apart. “There’s nothing like this,” Christophliemke stated. “While firewalls and other systems exist, OT-Max is the first to fully address this specific challenge.”

For more information on OT-Max, please visit ot-max.com or contact us directly.