Johnson Controls GPS0023-CE-EN Open Blue Bridge User Guide
- June 17, 2024
- Johnson Controls
Table of Contents
OpenBlue Bridge
Hardening Guide 
GPS0023-CE-EN
Version 3.0
Rev A
Revised 2023-11-13
Introduction
Our solution provides peace of mind to our customers with a holistic cyber
mindset beginning at initial design concept, continues through product
development, and is supported through deployment. Johnson Controls also
includes a rapid incident response process to meet the comprehensive and
evolving cybersecurity environments.
The Hardening Guide intends to provide cybersecurity guidance used in
planning, deployment, and maintenance periods.
As cybersecurity threats affect all connected devices, it is important to
ensure that cybersecurity is considered throughout the planning, deployment
and maintenance phases associated with a solution’s functional operation.
This guide provides hardening guidance specifically for the OpenBlue Bridge
application, including software, configuration, hardware, permissions, roles,
backup, restore, and patch management. While we do provide the supported
platforms, hardening of the client / server operating system, and SQL is out
of scope for this document.
This Johnson Controls OpenBlue Bridge Hardening guide is broken down into
three main sections depicting the overall process for hardening:
-
Planning
Provides an introduction, general knowledge, and overall guidance for you to prepare your system for security and hardening -
Deployment
Guides you through the execution and hardening steps based on the products and security features of the target system components -
Maintain
Provides a checklist for future checkpoints to keep your system safe and secure
Legal disclaimer
The cybersecurity practices described in this guide are recommended practices to facilitate the secure installation and configuration of the products described herein. However, Johnson Controls cannot guarantee that the implementation of the cybersecurity practices or recommendations described in this guide will ensure the security of the relevant product or system, or prevent, or alter the potential impact of, any unauthorized access or damage caused by a cybersecurity incident. This guide is provided “as is”, and Johnson Controls makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the efficacy of the cybersecurity practices or recommendations described in this guide. Johnson Controls disclaims all liability for any damages that may occur because of, or despite, reliance on this guide or compliance with any cybersecurity practices or recommendations set forth herein.
Planning
This section helps plan for the implementation of security requirement for the
OpenBlue Bridge installation.
1.1.0 OpenBlue Bridge overview
The OpenBlue Bridge platform is designed to integrate devices, cloud Security
as a Service (SaaS) offerings, legacy on premise platforms, and web
applications.
The OpenBlue Bridge (OBB) product release is the next generation of OpenBlue
Bridge software. OpenBlue Bridge brings a new dimension to the Industrial
Internet of Things (IIoT) by embedding built-in edge intelligence and
computing directly into a broad range of small-footprint edge devices. By
hosting the processing, analytics, and applications as close as possible to
the physical sensor infrastructure, OpenBlue Bridge minimizes latency,
improves performance and response times, and enables more effective
maintenance and operational strategies. The installation includes the Tempered
Airwall technology which provides a secure network infrastructure based on a
zero-trust model.
1.1.1 Deployment Architecture
The OpenBlue Bridge system is comprised of hardware and software components
working closely together to provide performance monitoring over a site’s
meters, HVAC, and other building systems.
Figure 1.1.1.1: Typical OpenBlue Bridge deployment architecture diagram using
Ethernet
Figure 1.1.1.2: Typical OpenBlue Bridge deployment architecture diagram using Cellular
1.1.2 Components
Typical OpenBlue Bridge system core components include the following items:
OpenBlue Bridge Device
The OpenBlue Bridge Device, also known as the OpenBlue Bridge gateway, is a
hardware device based on the Intwine Connected Gateway (ICG-200). It functions
as both a physical layer gateway and an upper-level application gateway.
OpenBlue Bridge serves as an edge computing and IoT hub, providing
connectivity for end devices.
OpenBlue Bridge Connectors
OpenBlue Bridge Connectors offer connectivity to specific protocols for smart
buildings and IoT systems.
These connectors are enabled as needed to support each on-premises protocol
OpenBlue Bridge will communicate with.
Airwall gateway
OpenBlue Bridge includes an Airwall Gateway as part of the OpenBlue zero-trust
architecture (ZTA). The Airwall Gateway creates a virtual air-gap solution to
make device network traffic invisible, preventing lateral movement of
malicious actors across your network. It uses the Host Identity Protocol (HIP)
to secure network communication between devices, enabling micro-segmentation
and remote access at scale on any network.
OpenBlue Bridge also utilizes HIP to secure data transport for site to
OpenBlue Cloud connectivity protecting it from discovery and attacks.
Device Manager
Device Manager is part of OpenBlue Bridge and acts as the central hub for all
your Edge devices and applications. You can use this browser-based software to
remotely manage data input and processing.
1.1.3 Supporting Components
Supporting components are those which are necessary for system operations but
are not within the targeted scope of this document. This solution is supported
by the following components:
Smart building systems and devices
OpenBlue Bridge interfaces and communicates with various smart building
systems and devices. These systems include a wide range of control devices
such as thermostats, lights, cameras, card readers, chillers, and more.
Firewall
The firewall acts as a protective barrier, ensuring that only authorized
communication is allowed between the OpenBlue Bridge and external cloud
services.
Local NTP server
The OpenBlue Bridge may be configured to utilize a local Network Time Protocol
(NTP) server. This configuration allows the Bridge to synchronize its time
with the local NTP server, instead of the default public NTP server, ensuring
accurate and consistent timekeeping for all on premises components that
synchronize time with the same local server.
Local DNS Server
The OpenBlue Bridge supports the configuration of a local Domain Name System
(DNS) server. A local DNS server can be useful in scenarios where custom DNS
settings or domain name resolution are required for specific applications or
devices within the network.
1.2.0 Security feature set
This section describes the security features within OpenBlue Bridge.
- Encrypted communications: Collected data is sent encrypted from the OpenBlue Bridge (OBB) to the cloud using Transport Layer Security (TLS) encapsulated with HIP tunnel.
- Zero-trust connection: All messages are sent to cloud services using the tempered zero-trust solution which further encapsulates all traffic from the site using Host Identity Protocol (HIP).
- Hidden IP addresses: The IP address for the OpenBlue Bridge is not exposed to the internet.
- Outbound communications only: Only two outbound ports are required to initiate site-to- cloud data exchange.
- Remote updates: OpenBlue Bridge gateway device automatic pulls in security updates and through the embedded ZTA HIP tunnel Bridge.
- Zero-trust policy-managed authorizations: Only defined paths are permitted between the OpenBlue Bridge and remote services.
- Secure remote Management: Technicians access to protected resources can be scheduled for specific dates and times based on authorizations.
- Event logging: The OpenBlue Bridge maintains a log of system events which may be exported for review.
1.3.0 Intended environment
The OpenBlue Bridge device should be installed within an equipment rack or
enclosure with restricted physical access.
1.3.1 Internet Connectivity
This platform will require internet access for operation.
1.4.0 Hardening methodology
While most building automation products provide onboard security safeguards,
including many secure-bydefault settings, we recommend that the device is
hardened according to the guidance outlined in section 2, deployment.
Generally,
you should aim for a defense-in-depth strategy employing standard IT hardening
methods and compensating controls as needed to compliment the base security
features of each component.
1.5.0 Data flow diagram
A data flow diagram (DFD) is a detailed view of the architecture which will
show each communication path and flow direction. This resource will be used to
aid in the configuration of network security settings (rules) within routers,
firewalls, and zero-trust architectures.
The use requirements of each path should be identified as:
- Required – this path must be established for the solution to function for all supported applications
- Optional – this path is optionally required depending on the functions that will be enabled (e.g., webserver, email)
- Setup only – this path is only needed during the setup and configuration and disabling during normal operations is recommended
- Service – this path is only needed for service. A service path is typically a temporary remote service connection which is disabled during non-service periods
It is useful for someone who is not as familiar with the process to break down the communication paths to understand the processes for the basic to the more complex applications. It is helpful to group paths by function. Communication paths should be labelled so they can be referenced within the document.
Figure 1.5.0.1 OpenBlue Bridge DFD 
1.5.1 Communication paths table
This table is useful to IT security groups and those configuring network
devices such as switches, routers, firewalls, etc. When monitoring network
traffic, the paths below illustrate the expected behavior in the system.
Figure 1.5.1.1. Communication Paths Table
Deployment
This section is designed to help execute the deployment phase of your system. The contents within this section address how to initiate secure deployment for new installations, how to harden your attack surface and additional steps after commissioning required before the new or upgraded system is turned over to runtime operations.
2.1.0 Deployment overview
Security hardening begins prior to deployment with careful planning as
outlined in section 1 of this guide. It is a good practice to review sections
prior to deployment to fully understand the security feature set, its
architecture, data flow and requirements before physically installing and
making application specific configuration changes.
In this section more details are provided to help the installer prepare for
deployment:
- Physical installation considerations
- Default security behavior
- Resetting factory defaults
- Considerations for commissioning
- Recommended knowledge level
Before you start the installation of your solution, consider the guidance in the following sections.
2.1.1 Physical installation considerations
Install hardware using the instructions provided in the installation guide.
Keep in mind that the physical access to the device and physical installation
of the device can impact the cybersecurity.
Physical access to certain devices enable actions that cannot be authenticated
and logged electronically through the capabilities of this product. To prevent
unauthorized access, be sure to place the device in a room,
cabinet or enclosure that can restrict access (for example, mechanical lock or
physical access control).
Some enclosures where the OpenBlue Bridge is installed are equipped with an
optical tamper switch that you can use to send and log electronic alerts
regarding physical tampering of the installation. Consider using protective
electric wire conduits when communication wires with paths through areas of
lower trust.
2.2.0 Hardening
While many products include secure-by-default safeguards, additional hardening
is usually required to meet the security requirements of the target
environment. It is important to apply to the correct level of protection as
warranted by the customer policies and government regulations that may govern
the application security settings for this deployment.
2.2.1 Hardening Checklist
- Hardening Step 1: Logging into the OpenBlue Bridge device
- Hardening Step 2: Update the Network Configuration
- Hardening Step 3: Change the Username and Password
- Hardening Step 3.1: Change the NTP and Timezone
- Hardening Step 4: Configure the Security Settings
- Hardening Step 5: Review Audit Logs
- Hardening Step 6: Setup Airwall Configuration
2.2.2 Local Configuration App
The ICG-200 local configuration app, within the OpenBlue Bridge, is a web tool
that allows users to customize the network configuration settings on their
Bridge hardware. The tool is useful for kitting, initial installation, and
ongoing diagnostics/maintenance.
Step 1: Logging into the OpenBlue Bridge device
To access the app and configure your OpenBlue Bridge simply connect to the
OpenBlue Bridge’s WiFi SSID or Ethernet port from any Internet enabled device
(e.g., phone, tablet, or PC).
- Locate the network: Using a WiFi enabled device, open the window that shows available Wi- Fi networks. The ICG-200 WiFi network will appear on the list. Select the network (SSID) shown on the label.
- Connect to WiFi: After selecting the ICG-200 WiFi network, you will need to input the default WiFi password shown on the label.
2.2.3 Network Configuration
Step 2: Update the Network Configuration
For those users that require more complex configurations, the below section
show the advanced settings of the OpenBlue Bridge device and best practices to
ensure appropriate configuration.
All headings refer to a specific tab in the Network Configuration page and
explain its function in detail.
OpenBlue Bridge Hardening Guide
- If not using Wi-Fi, deselect the “Enable Wi-Fi” checkbox.
- If using Wi-Fi, change the SSID and PSK.
2.2.4 Changing Passwords
To change existing passwords and/or usernames, follow the below instructions.
NOTE: Changing usernames/passwords will replace the information on the
label. Be sure to WRITE IT DOWN and store in a SECURE LOCATION
Hardening Step 3: Change the Username and Password
To change the administration username and password, click on the
Administration tab on the left-hand side of your browser. Change the username
and password using the text boxes provided.
NOTE: Changes to the admin username and password will keep you logged in but will change upon logging out.
2.2.4.1 Change NTP and Timezone
Step 3.1: Change the NTP and Timezone
NTP allows synchronization of system time with a reliable server, ensuring
accurate timekeeping. Adjusting the timezone sets the local time reference for
the system. These settings are crucial for accurate timestamps, scheduling,
and system functionality.
Note: NTP should be common for the systems this OpenBlue Bridge is
communicating with to ensure a consistent timestamp for all components. Work
with the local network administrators to determine the best NTP server to
enter.
2.2.5 Security
Step 4: Configure the Security Settings
The Security tab allows you to customize additional security options on the
OpenBlue Bridge device. You can disable the use of USB ports, the HDMI
interface, or prevent the local configuration webapp from being accessed via
the cellular network.
OpenBlue Bridge Hardening Guide
Ensure USB and HDMI tabs are disabled.
2.2.6 OpenBlue Bridge audit log:
The audit log provides valuable information that can be used for both
functional troubleshooting and security investigations.
Step 5 Review Audit Logs
The audit log provides a user readable text file that shows actions taken on
the local ICG user interface.
The audit log may be downloaded to the laptop or mobile device connecting to
the ICG by selecting the Download button. 
The Logs tab allows users to take a look at or download the logs. The available log files are – System Log, Application Framework, Network Config daemon, ICG Log.
2.2.7 Airwall
Step 6: Setup Airwall Configuration
Step 1: Configure Customer Firewall
-
Prepare to configure the customer’s firewall to allow the necessary communication for the Airwall.
Step 2: Obtain Conductor URL and Relay IP Address -
Contact the Airwall Conductor administrator to obtain the Conductor URL and Relay IP address required for configuration.
Step 3: Configure Firewall Rules -
Configure outbound rules on the customer’s firewall as follows:
-
Allow outbound traffic on TCP Port 8096 to the Conductor URL.
-
Allow outbound traffic on UDP Port 10500 to the Relay IP address.
-
Ensure that all other ports and addresses are closed for security purposes.
These steps ensure that the Airwall is commissioned and configured correctly to establish connections with the Conductor URL and Relay IP address while maintaining firewall security.
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