BACnet Secure Connect (BACnet/SC) Implementation & Best Practices

BACnet/SC modernizes BACnet communications by using encrypted, authenticated sessions rather than legacy broadcast-based BACnet/IP patterns. It is designed for security-sensitive and enterprise-connected BAS deployments where segmentation, certificate trust, and firewall compatibility are key requirements.

Security and Architecture Highlights

• TLS-based encrypted communications
• Certificate-based identity and trust validation
• Hub-and-spoke model replacing broad broadcast discovery
• Better compatibility with routed and segmented IT networks

Deployment Steps

1. Define trust model and certificate authority approach
2. Deploy and harden BACnet/SC hubs
3. Provision certificates for hubs and nodes
4. Configure routing and firewall policies
5. Validate interoperability with existing BACnet/IP devices and routers

Benefits

• Stronger protection against interception and spoofing risks
• Better alignment with enterprise cybersecurity controls
• Improved scalability across segmented environments

Challenges to Plan For

• Certificate lifecycle and renewal management
• Additional deployment complexity vs traditional BACnet/IP
• Potential latency and design considerations in large topologies

Migration Best Practices

• Start with a pilot segment before full cutover
• Maintain clear inventory of BACnet/IP-only legacy devices
• Use phased migration with gateway or mixed-network strategy
• Document certificate ownership, expiry, and renewal process
• Add monitoring for trust failures and session drops

BACnet/SC strengthens BAS network security when paired with disciplined certificate operations and phased migration planning.