IEEE 1686-2022

IEEE 1686-2022 defines cybersecurity capabilities for intelligent electronic devices used in power, energy, and related control environments. IEEE 1686-2022 helps identify the security functions these devices should support, with attention to access control, authentication, logging, and other protections relevant to electronic components and system interfaces. It is useful for organizations that need a clear technical reference when specifying, evaluating, or managing device security in connected infrastructure.

Overview of IEEE 1686-2022

This standard provides a focused framework for cybersecurity capabilities in intelligent electronic devices, often used in power system and industrial control applications. It addresses how such devices should support security-related features that help protect configuration, communication, and operational integrity. As an active technical document, IEEE 1686-2022 is relevant to engineering teams that need a consistent basis for design review, procurement, compliance checks, and product comparison across devices with embedded processing and electromagnetic interfacing.

Typical use cases

IEEE 1686-2022 is commonly applied when selecting or assessing intelligent electronic devices for substations, protective relays, monitoring units, and other power-related control equipment. It may also be used in system integration work where device security capabilities must align with operational requirements and site policies. For teams responsible for commissioning or maintenance, the standard can support more consistent evaluation of device access methods, event records, and cybersecurity features across equipment classes.

Why it matters

This standard matters because cybersecurity capabilities in intelligent electronic devices can affect both reliability and operational risk. Using IEEE 1686-2022 as a reference can help clarify expectations during specification, testing, and acceptance processes, reducing ambiguity between suppliers and users. It also supports more consistent procurement decisions by making security-related capabilities easier to compare. In environments where power and control equipment must operate dependably, that consistency can be important for long-term maintenance and system assurance.

• Cybersecurity capabilities for intelligent electronic devices
• Power, energy, and control-system context
• Device security functions and interfaces
• Specification, evaluation, and compliance support