Device for cryptographically protecting a communication device for an industrial automation system

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for cryptographically protecting a communication device for an industrial automation system. The device comprises a first Ethernet plug connection element (11) for connecting to a communication network within which messages are transmitted in a cryptographically protected manner, and a second Ethernet plug connection element (12) for connecting to the communication device (2). In addition, a cryptography module (13) is provided which is configured to save cryptographic keys or certificates assigned to the communication device or users of the communication device, to encrypt messages (102) sent from the communication device (102) and to decrypt messages (101) sent to the communication device. At the second Ethernet plug connection element, a security sensor (121) is provided to monitor a disconnection of the communication device, said security sensor being configured to trigger a blocking of the cryptographic keys and / or certificates and / or the cryptography module if the communication device is disconnected.