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a comprehensive threat analysis to understand their devices' specific risks and apply security measures accordingly. Edge devices are deployed in diverse environments, each with unique security challenges. A sensor monitoring the water level in a dam will have different security requirements than an industrial controller operating in a factory or a smart device running in a home. Therefore, security is highly context-dependent, and the key to ensuring adequate security is tailoring protections to the device's specific use case and environment. Here is where threat analysis becomes indispensable. Threat analysis involves evaluating the potential vulnerabilities of a device or system and determining what kinds of attacks that device or system could face. The goal is to identify the assets needing protection, the methods attackers might use, and the consequences of a successful breach. Considerations must also be made about evolving threats and, more importantly, efficient mechanisms to address vulnerabilities in the field. By understanding these elements, organizations can design and implement security measures proportionate to the risk. When performing threat analysis, take the following steps to ensure that security efforts are proportionate to the risk: 1. Identifying Assets and Attack Surfaces The first step is to determine what is being protected. In the context of edge devices, assets could include sensitive data, control functions, or access to larger networks. Organizations need to identify which assets are most valuable and identify attack surfaces accordingly. For example, a smart meter may be exposed to the public network, and tampering could allow unauthorized access to broader energy infrastructure, energy theft, or access to consumer- related data. In contrast, an internal C h a p t e r 3 | P r o p o r t i o n a l i t y o f R i s k – I n t r o d u c t i o n t o R i s k / T h r e a t A n a l y s i s Conducting a risk and threat analysis for edge applications identifies the distinct security and operational challenges of edge computing environments. This process enables organizations to build robust defenses, maintain compliance, balance security with performance, and ensure the resilience of distributed systems." Rasma Araby Managing Director, atsec information AB 17 7 Experts Discuss Managing Security Risk and Regulatory Compliance at the Edge