Invisible Network Security for Critical Infrastructure with NA347

Critical infrastructure networks must remain secure even when threats are designed to operate undetected. As operational technology, IoT devices, sensors, and remote assets become increasingly connected, exposed network components and management interfaces create new opportunities for sophisticated cyberattacks. Remote and unmanned sites therefore require continuous protection with minimal network footprint and reliable edge operation.

To address these requirements, the customer, an innovative cybersecurity solution provider, selected Axiomtek’s NA347 fanless ultra-compact network appliance as the hardware platform for its invisible network security solution. Featuring multiple Intel® I210 GbE ports, a compact design, wireless expansion, and customized integration support, the NA347 provides a dependable foundation for deploying invisible, low-latency protection close to critical assets.

Challenges

Critical infrastructure operators must protect distributed networks while maintaining uninterrupted operation of essential systems. OT devices, IoT assets, and remote facilities often operate continuously and may be deployed at unmanned sites where support is limited. Any security platform must maintain a low network profile while providing software compatibility and long-term hardware reliability.

The customer required an edge appliance capable of hosting its customized invisible security software, performing low-latency traffic analysis, and supporting dedicated Ethernet links for filtering and segmentation. The system also had to fit space-constrained cabinets and remote installations while maintaining secure communication.

Deployment readiness was equally important. The customer needed verified BSD compatibility, customized BIOS settings, software image pre-installation, pre-configuration before shipment, and physical protection measures that could help identify unauthorized access or hardware manipulation.

Key Requirements:

Solution: NA347 Fanless Network Platform

Axiomtek proposed the NA347, a fanless ultra-compact network appliance designed for industrial networking, IoT security gateways, and space-constrained cybersecurity deployments. Its compact and noiseless design enables installation close to protected assets, including remote or unmanned infrastructure sites.

Equipped with three GbE RJ-45 ports based on Intel® I210 controllers, the NA347 provides the dedicated connectivity required for the customer’s filtering and segmentation architecture. LAN bypass supports service continuity, while M.2 storage and PCIe Mini Card expansion provide flexible storage and wireless connectivity options.

Axiomtek also provided hardware verification, BSD software image compatibility checks, customized BIOS settings, anti-tamper labeling, and system pre-configuration. These services reduced integration effort and helped the customer deliver a deployment-ready platform for faster field installation.

Axiomtek helped the customer transform its invisible network security technology into a reliable, deployment-ready edge platform. Through hardware verification, software compatibility testing, customized BIOS settings, software pre-installation, and system pre-configuration, Axiomtek streamlined integration and ensured consistent system performance across field deployments.

Application: Invisible Edge Security for Critical Infrastructure

In the field deployment, the NA347 operates as a rugged invisible edge security gateway within the customer’s architecture. Installed at remote or unmanned sites, it hosts the customized security platform, captures essential network and asset data, and maintains a minimal network footprint to reduce exposure to external threats.

The system supports non-intrusive monitoring, threat detection, bit-level anomaly analysis, and rapid response close to protected OT and IoT assets. Security intelligence can be processed at the edge and shared with centralized management and analysis components. This combination improves visibility, stealth, and resilience while simplifying deployment across distributed and difficult-to-access infrastructure.

System Configurations of NA347