Modern day PCB design in the age of AWS cloud (Part 2 of 3: Securing the collaborative process)
In Part 1 of our blog series, we learned about the partnership between Siemens EDA and AWS and how it will transform modern day PCB design. However, as PCB design tools and workflows are enhanced by the flexibility of the cloud, securing sensitive data and intellectual property becomes paramount. For Siemens EDA, a leader in PCB design tools, partnering with Amazon Web Services (AWS) has meant elevating our security measures to protect vital data across global networks. This blog explores the stringent security protocols and architectures that underpin the successful deployment of our cloud-connected PCB design solutions.
Security as a priority
Both Siemens EDA and AWS adopt a ‘security-first’ mindset, reflecting a rigorous approach to protecting client data and systems. Recognizing the critical nature of the data involved in PCB designs, such as intellectual property and sensitive customer information, the approach is both proactive and defensive.
- Security-first mindset: At Siemens EDA, every development cycle begins with stringent security checks, aiming to fortify the application against potential breaches.
- Security as job zero at AWS: AWS treats security as its foremost priority, with thousands of dedicated engineers ensuring that the platform and its services remain impenetrable.
Key security features and strategies
The collaboration between AWS and Siemens EDA introduces a robust framework designed to safeguard data integrity and privacy across multiple layers:
- AWS’s shared responsibility model: AWS delineates security into ‘security of the cloud’ – handled by AWS – and ‘security in the cloud’, which is managed by Siemens EDA utilizing AWS tools. This model clarifies roles and enhances focused security efforts on both hardware and application levels.
- Encryption and data isolation: Data stored on AWS, such as within Amazon S3 services, benefits from advanced encryption protocols managed through AWS Key Management Service (KMS). This service ensures that data at rest and in transit remains secure against unauthorized access. [Note: S3 stands for Simple Storage Service, representing an AWS object storage offering]
- Access controls and threat mitigation: Implementing stringent access controls, including multi-factor authentication and fine-grained ‘least privilege’ permissions, minimizes risks associated with human error and malicious attacks.
Compliance and data integrity
Adhering to compliance standards is not just a regulatory requirement but a backbone of trust between Siemens EDA, AWS, and our customers. The robust compliance protocols employed include:
- ISO 27001 and SOC 2 compliance: These standards form the basis of the rigorous security checks and protocols that Siemens EDA’s cloud applications undergo, ensuring they meet international security benchmarks.
- AWS CloudTrail and compliance benefits: The integration of AWS CloudTrail enhances traceability and auditing capabilities, essential for maintaining compliance and managing risk effectively.
- S3’s durability and compliance: S3’s architecture promises an impressive 99.999999999% durability, ensuring that data loss is virtually impossible, thus upholding stringent data integrity standards.
As cloud technologies continue to percolate through the PCB design & analysis space, the partnership between Siemens EDA and AWS sets a benchmark for what is achievable in terms of security and compliance. This alliance not only addresses current security challenges but also dynamically evolves to counteract emerging threats. With AWS’s scalable solutions and Siemens EDA’s industry expertise, the promise of secure, cloud-based PCB design tools and workflows not only enhances operational capabilities but also builds enduring trust among users. This strategic focus on security continues to empower us to deliver ever-more innovative, reliable, and secure PCB design solutions and paving the way for accelerated advancements in the EDA industry.
Also, keep an eye out for Part 3, “Ensuring Reliability and Performance,” coming soon to our three-part series on Modern Day PCB Design in the Age of AWS Cloud.
