Strengthening Cybersecurity
As buildings become smarter and more connected, cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought. At Stratus Controls & Automation, we recognize that modern building automation systems (BAS)—encompassing HVAC, lighting, remote monitoring, and more—are essential to operational efficiency, comfort, and safety. But without the right protections, these systems can also become vulnerable entry points for cyberattacks.
Securing Existing Buildings: Where We Start
Improving cybersecurity in an existing building starts with a comprehensive assessment. Our team at Stratus evaluates every component of your building automation network, looking for common vulnerabilities such as outdated firmware, default credentials, open network connections, and unpatched systems.
From there, we implement a series of proven steps to harden your BAS:
Replace default usernames and passwords with strong, unique credentials
Segment networks to separate building systems from your main IT infrastructure
Apply all available security patches and firmware updates
Enable firewalls and restrict communication to only necessary traffic
Monitor system behavior for irregular activity or access attempts
Educate facility teams on cybersecurity best practices and protocols
This systematic approach enables even older buildings to significantly enhance their security posture, protecting both digital systems and physical operations.
What Threats Do We Commonly See?
Building automation systems face a range of threats, many of which mirror those seen in broader IT networks. These include:
Malware attacks such as ransomware or industrial control-specific malware like Triton or Stuxnet
Unauthorized access through weak credentials or system misconfigurations
Insider threats or human error, like staff accidentally downloading malicious files or misconfiguring devices
These threats can lead to disruptions in building functionality, costly downtime, or even compromised occupant safety.
Are Smart Buildings More Vulnerable?
In short: they can be. Smart buildings—with IoT devices, cloud connectivity, and remote access—offer unparalleled convenience and energy efficiency. But each added layer of connectivity introduces new cybersecurity challenges. Traditional buildings relied on air-gapped systems. Today’s connected facilities must be proactively secured to prevent digital threats from turning into physical consequences.
The Stratus Approach to BAS Cybersecurity
At Stratus, our cybersecurity approach is both technical and human. Our team prioritizes:
System awareness – understanding the full inventory of connected devices
Access control – enforcing strict login policies and privilege management
Network segmentation – isolating BAS components from the broader IT environment
Device hardening – applying patches, locking down ports, and disabling unnecessary services
Continuous monitoring – identifying suspicious behavior early through alerts and logs
Incident response readiness – helping clients plan and respond quickly if something goes wrong
Security-focused culture – ensuring everyone from the IT team to facility staff follows best practices
Regardless of the building type—industrial, commercial, residential, or mixed-use—we help you establish a resilient foundation against evolving cyber threats.
Building a Secure, Smarter Future
Cybersecurity in building automation isn’t a one-time fix—it’s an ongoing process. As systems become more advanced, so do the threats they face. Stratus is here to help you stay ahead with a proactive, layered defense strategy. By protecting your automation infrastructure, we’re also safeguarding your building’s comfort, efficiency, and business continuity.
If you're ready to assess your BAS cybersecurity or want help modernizing your current setup, contact Stratus Controls & Automation today.