Cyber Security

Most operating activities such as monitoring and control of systems can be done locally by the PV system operator or service personnel without the need for data communication via public Internet infrastructure.

In other use cases of systems, the PV systems are also part of the global communication system, which is based on Internet infrastructures.

The data communication via Internet is an up-to-date, economically viable and customer-friendly approach in order to enable easy access for the following modern applications such as:

• Cloud platforms (e.g. Sunny Portal)

• Smartphones or other mobile devices (iOS or Android apps)

• SCADA systems, which are remotely connected

• Utility interfaces for grid management services

Alternatively, selected and secured communication interfaces may be used. These solutions are no longer state of the art and are very expensive to use (special communication interfaces, separate wide area networks and more).

When using the Internet infrastructure, the systems connected to the Internet are entering a basically unsecure area. Potential attackers constantly seek vulnerable systems. Usually, they are criminally motivated, have a terrorist background or aim to disrupt business operations. Without taking any measures to protect systems and other systems from such misuse, a data communication system should not be connected to the Internet.

Communication between the SMA internet platform Sunny Portal and the Sunny Home Manager takes place via the Webconnect process as well as the HTTPS protocol, i.e. an authenticated and encrypted connection and thus allows safe online communication.

You can find the current recommendations by SMA Solar Technology AG on the topic of Cyber Security in the Technical Information "PUBLIC CYBER SECURITY - Guidelines for a Secure PV System Communication" at www.SMA-Solar.com.