What You’ll Learn:
- Key cybersecurity priorities outlined in the new Executive Order.
- The significance of secure software development and supply chain transparency.
- Implications for manufacturers in automotive, medical, and industrial sectors.
- Steps for enhancing cybersecurity across federal systems and beyond.
Overview of the Executive Order
On January 16, 2025, a pivotal Executive Order was issued to strengthen and promote innovation in the United States’ cybersecurity infrastructure. This directive builds upon previous efforts, notably Executive Order 14028, aiming to address the growing and evolving threats posed by adversarial nations and cybercriminals. With cyber threats costing billions annually and jeopardizing the security of critical infrastructure, this order takes a comprehensive approach to bolster national defenses.
The key objectives are to secure software and cloud services, protect federal communications, and drive innovation in cybersecurity technologies. This order marks a significant escalation in the government’s commitment to defending digital infrastructure and ensuring the resilience of vital systems.
Enhancing Software Supply Chain Security
Operationalizing Transparency in Software Supply Chains:
The Executive Order sets a new standard for transparency and security in software procurement. It mandates that the Federal Government only acquire software from providers who can demonstrate adherence to secure development practices. This involves the submission of machine-readable attestations and accompanying artifacts that validate their cybersecurity claims. This step aims to reduce vulnerabilities in the software supply chain, a critical point of attack for cyber adversaries.
To ensure compliance, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) will evaluate these attestations, continuously validating a sample to ensure they meet stringent security criteria. Any discrepancies or deficiencies will prompt immediate corrective actions, reinforcing the integrity of software used in federal systems.
Emerging Technologies and Cybersecurity:
Innovation is at the heart of this directive. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is tasked with developing updated guidelines that incorporate secure software development and delivery practices. These guidelines will help create a robust framework that ensures the security of software from development to deployment, addressing potential risks throughout the lifecycle of digital products.
Implications for Product and Device Cybersecurity
The Automotive Industry: Racing to Better Security
The automotive sector faces unique challenges with the rise of connected and autonomous vehicles. Cybersecurity is paramount as these vehicles rely heavily on complex software systems. The Executive Order’s emphasis on secure software attestations and continuous validation is crucial for the automotive industry, helping mitigate risks associated with cyberattacks on vehicle systems. This ensures not only the safety of the vehicles but also the privacy and security of user data.
Medical Devices: Security for Health
Medical devices are increasingly dependent on software to function efficiently and effectively. This reliance makes them a prime target for cyber threats. The Executive Order’s focus on secure software practices, alongside mandatory updates to security frameworks, directly addresses the need for heightened cybersecurity in this critical industry. Compliance with these practices ensures that medical devices remain secure and resilient against potential cyberattacks, safeguarding patient health and data.

Industrial Equipment: OT's Next Frontier
Industrial control systems are integral to manufacturing and critical infrastructure. These systems are frequently targeted by cyberattacks aiming to disrupt operations or steal sensitive data. The new regulations outlined in the Executive Order, focusing on secure supply chains and real-time threat identification, enhance the cybersecurity posture of these systems. Manufacturers in this sector must adopt these practices to protect their operations and maintain the integrity of critical infrastructure.
Key Elements for Manufacturers: What Device Companies Should Know
There are a few issues from the executive order that are specifically relevant for device manufacturers:
- Secure Development Attestations: Manufacturers must certify that their software development processes align with secure practices as outlined in NIST’s Secure Software Development Framework (SSDF). This certification provides assurance that their products are developed with security as a top priority.
- Continuous Validation: The mandate for ongoing verification of cybersecurity measures ensures that manufacturers remain compliant with evolving federal standards. This continuous process helps in adapting to new threats and maintaining robust defenses.
- Transparency and Accountability: The Executive Order demands greater transparency in software supply chains, requiring manufacturers to provide detailed attestations about their cybersecurity practices. This transparency helps build trust and ensures accountability in the supply chain.
Strengthening Federal Systems Cybersecurity
The Executive Order outlines several initiatives to enhance cybersecurity across federal systems, reinforcing the nation’s digital defenses:
- Enhanced Identity and Access Management: Federal agencies are directed to adopt advanced identity technologies, including phishing-resistant authentication methods like WebAuthn. These measures are aimed at improving visibility into security threats and strengthening cloud security, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information.
- Improved Incident Response: CISA will bolster its threat-hunting capabilities across federal agencies. This enhancement allows for the rapid identification and mitigation of cyber threats, minimizing potential damage and ensuring the resilience of federal systems.
- Secure Communications: The order mandates the implementation of modern encryption standards and protocols to protect federal communications. This is crucial in safeguarding against adversarial nations and cybercriminals, ensuring that federal communications remain secure and confidential.
- Cloud Security: The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is tasked with developing new policies to secure federal data in cloud-based systems. These policies will align with agency requirements, ensuring that federal data remains protected in the cloud environment.
Innovations in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds significant potential to transform the cybersecurity landscape. The Executive Order highlights this potential, mandating the acceleration of AI development for cybersecurity applications. AI can play a crucial role in rapidly detecting and responding to cyber threats, enhancing the nation’s ability to defend against sophisticated attacks.
Pilot programs will be launched to explore the application of AI in critical infrastructure defense, particularly in the energy sector. These programs will assess AI’s capability in vulnerability detection, automatic patch management, and identifying anomalous activities across information technology (IT) and operational technology systems.

Conclusion
The latest Executive Order represents a comprehensive effort to reinforce national cybersecurity. By prioritizing secure software development, enhancing federal systems’ resilience, and leveraging the power of AI, the order aims to protect the nation’s digital infrastructure against evolving threats. For manufacturers, particularly in the automotive, medical, and industrial sectors, adherence to these new standards is not just a compliance requirement but a vital component of maintaining the trust and safety of their products.