Case Study: Penn State University achieves secure network segmentation and remote access with Tempered Airwall

Secured infrastructure and simplified management for Penn State University

Penn State University faced significant security and operational challenges with its extensive network of building control systems. The university's infrastructure, spanning over 640 buildings, lacked segmentation, exposing it to numerous cyber threats. Issues included frequent downtime, a high volume of alarms, and unsecured remote access for a large ecosystem of vendors, which complicated network management for the Facilities Automation Services team.

The university implemented the Airwall solution from Tempered to address these problems. This allowed the team to quickly deploy a secure, cloaked overlay network without additional infrastructure or staff. The results were substantial: a 90% reduction in the attack surface, a 50% decrease in alarms, and the elimination of broadcast storms. Tempered's solution was deployed ten times faster than alternatives and at a fraction of the cost, enabling secure, scalable connections for both existing and new remote buildings.

Penn State University

Tom Walker

Head of Facilities Automation Services (FAS)