How does NFPA 72 Address CyberSecurity for Wireless Fire Alarm Systems?
With the increasing connectivity of modern fire alarm systems, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has expanded its guidelines to address cybersecurity risks. Beginning with the 2022 edition of NFPA 72, the code introduced a new chapter focused on cybersecurity, which has since been made more prescriptive in the 2025 edition.
NFPA 72 Cybersecurity Provisions (2025 edition)
Instead of providing a specific cybersecurity checklist, the NFPA references established standards and focuses on risk-based measures. For fire alarm systems, particularly wireless ones that interface with other networks or the internet, NFPA 72 requires the adoption of security frameworks.
- Security levels: The 2025 edition mandates specific security levels for interfaces communicating with network-connectable equipment. Systems that are not connected to the internet and use proprietary, wired protocols are considered to have the lowest security risk and do not require minimum cybersecurity levels.
- Manufacturer responsibility: Many of the requirements focus on manufacturers, mandating that they design and build their equipment to meet specific cybersecurity standards, such as UL 2900-2-3, and provide evidence of compliance with these standards.
- Integration with other standards: For fire alarm and signaling systems susceptible to cyber threats, NFPA 72 requires coordination with established cybersecurity frameworks. These include standards from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the International Society of Automation (ISA).
Remote Access & System Security
The use of wireless technology often includes remote access features for testing, maintenance, and programming. NFPA 72 includes specific safeguards for this functionality to prevent unauthorized access.
- Manual termination: There must be a physical means to manually shut off a remote connection at the fire alarm control panel at any time.
- Inactive time-out: Remote connections must automatically terminate after one hour of inactivity.
- On-site verification: Key functions, such as silencing or resetting the system, must be enabled by a qualified person who is physically present on-site. The remote operation is limited to the specific portion of the system that has been taken out of service.
- Owner access: Building owners must be given access to software security credentials. This prevents an installer or service contractor from holding access “hostage” if an owner decides to switch to a different provider.
Cybersecurity Definition in NFPA 72
The 2025 edition includes a clear definition of cybersecurity within the code.
- NFPA 72 definition: “The protection of systems from theft or damage of data, or damage to hardware or software, as well as from unauthorized command or control or access to any information or any services the systems provide”.
How Cybersecurity Applies to Wireless Fire Alarm Systems
Wireless systems are inherently more reliant on networks than fully wired, isolated systems, making these cybersecurity provisions particularly relevant. For wireless systems that connect to the internet, build networks, or use remote monitoring, owners and contractors must implement protections such as secure gateways or firewalls. The manufacturer is responsible for providing equipment that meets the referenced security standards, while the owner is accountable for implementing appropriate access controls and managing the system’s network connections.
Call: (888) 864-4362
Email: Info@IntelligentFire.com
Contact Us: Customer Support
Relevant Keywords:
>
>
>
>
>