Author: sHq_LoGiNz

In 2024, the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) became law, reshaping security expectations for digital products sold in the EU. By 2027, the regulation will be fully enforced, and new digital products will need to demonstrate compliance. The CRA introduces security-by-design and security-by-default requirements, raising the baseline for products that previously shipped with little or no protection.

To help manufacturers apply the CRA consistently, EU standards bodies are developing Harmonized Standards. Cybersecurity knowledge and resources are unevenly distributed across industry, and not every organization has the same in-house expertise to translate legislation into a robust test plan. Without a shared framework, vendors could interpret requirements differently, leading to inconsistent assessments, gaps in protection, and added risk for both manufacturers and the European marketplace. Harmonized Standards capture industry security expertise as risk-driven requirements. This approach offers a more straightforward path to compliance by defining process requirements in horizontal standards and specifying requirements for each device class in vertical standards.

The CRA aims to safeguard consumers and businesses by protecting not only personal data, such as credentials, but essentially any data that has value to its user. That can include, for example, operational data, configuration settings, usage information, or proprietary data processed by the device. Even if a product may not appear to handle “sensitive” data, this information can still reveal behavior, enable profiling, or be used to pivot into other systems. If a device is to be trusted to protect any data it handles, it is important that its functionality cannot be changed by adversaries. If an adversary can modify firmware, change configurations, or replace code with malicious code, they can bypass protections, alter outputs, or use the product as a foothold into a larger system. And even if the data itself isn’t valuable, users will still care that the device cannot be manipulated, because altered functionality can create safety or reliability risks.

Boot Managers appear as a line item in the CRA because of their vital role in the chain of trust. This function ensures a device only executes approved code and cannot be hijacked for malicious purposes. The Boot Manager sits in the SoC (System-on-Chip), the heart of any digital product, and consists of hardware and low-level software (firmware). The hardware consists of cryptographic functions, sensors, OTP registers, and memory. The firmware provides protected data flow, checkpoints, and error handling.

The new ETSI EN 304 623 draft standard elaborates the high-level CRA requirements for Boot Managers, such as the use of cryptography to protect data, and a standard configuration enabling these security features. The standard includes a total of 92 detailed requirements that Boot Managers need to satisfy to be considered secure. These are derived from a threat and risk assessment (TARA), which is also included in the standard to provide evidence that threats have been modelled.

For a Boot Manager to be CRA compliant, it is important that its features are not only designed well but also implemented well. The standard therefore includes a section on conformity assessment, describing what a test lab should do to verify correctness.

The release of this new draft standard underlines that CRA is not only about software, but also about hardware and firmware. As a result, many more chips will need to include a Boot Manager / Root of Trust, and developers will be expected to demonstrate that these security functions are implemented correctly and can withstand realistic threat scenarios.

Keysight supports its customers throughout every stage of CRA product security evaluation. From interpreting CRA requirements and emerging harmonized standards, to security evaluation and test execution, and ultimately evidence generation for conformity assessment, we work with your team to manage the complete security lifecycle of your product. Learn more about Keysight CRA services on this page.

Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the Keysight Device Security Bulletin for monthly highlights on device security trends and practical insights — brought to you by the Keysight device security team.

In 2024, the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) became law, reshaping security expectations for digital products sold in the EU. By 2027, the regulation will be fully enforced, and new digital products will need to demonstrate compliance. The CRA introduces security-by-design and security-by-default requirements, raising the baseline for products that previously shipped with little or no protection.

To help manufacturers apply the CRA consistently, EU standards bodies are developing Harmonized Standards. Cybersecurity knowledge and resources are unevenly distributed across industry, and not every organization has the same in-house expertise to translate legislation into a robust test plan. Without a shared framework, vendors could interpret requirements differently, leading to inconsistent assessments, gaps in protection, and added risk for both manufacturers and the European marketplace. Harmonized Standards capture industry security expertise as risk-driven requirements. This approach offers a more straightforward path to compliance by defining process requirements in horizontal standards and specifying requirements for each device class in vertical standards.

The CRA aims to safeguard consumers and businesses by protecting not only personal data, such as credentials, but essentially any data that has value to its user. That can include, for example, operational data, configuration settings, usage information, or proprietary data processed by the device. Even if a product may not appear to handle “sensitive” data, this information can still reveal behavior, enable profiling, or be used to pivot into other systems. If a device is to be trusted to protect any data it handles, it is important that its functionality cannot be changed by adversaries. If an adversary can modify firmware, change configurations, or replace code with malicious code, they can bypass protections, alter outputs, or use the product as a foothold into a larger system. And even if the data itself isn’t valuable, users will still care that the device cannot be manipulated, because altered functionality can create safety or reliability risks.

Boot Managers appear as a line item in the CRA because of their vital role in the chain of trust. This function ensures a device only executes approved code and cannot be hijacked for malicious purposes. The Boot Manager sits in the SoC (System-on-Chip), the heart of any digital product, and consists of hardware and low-level software (firmware). The hardware consists of cryptographic functions, sensors, OTP registers, and memory. The firmware provides protected data flow, checkpoints, and error handling.

The new ETSI EN 304 623 draft standard elaborates the high-level CRA requirements for Boot Managers, such as the use of cryptography to protect data, and a standard configuration enabling these security features. The standard includes a total of 92 detailed requirements that Boot Managers need to satisfy to be considered secure. These are derived from a threat and risk assessment (TARA), which is also included in the standard to provide evidence that threats have been modelled.

For a Boot Manager to be CRA compliant, it is important that its features are not only designed well but also implemented well. The standard therefore includes a section on conformity assessment, describing what a test lab should do to verify correctness.

The release of this new draft standard underlines that CRA is not only about software, but also about hardware and firmware. As a result, many more chips will need to include a Boot Manager / Root of Trust, and developers will be expected to demonstrate that these security functions are implemented correctly and can withstand realistic threat scenarios.

Keysight supports its customers throughout every stage of CRA product security evaluation. From interpreting CRA requirements and emerging harmonized standards, to security evaluation and test execution, and ultimately evidence generation for conformity assessment, we work with your team to manage the complete security lifecycle of your product. Learn more about Keysight CRA services on this page.

Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the Keysight Device Security Bulletin for monthly highlights on device security trends and practical insights — brought to you by the Keysight device security team.

ORLANDO, Fla. and CHARLOTTE, N.C. April 17, 2026 /3BL/ – Caesarstone, the pioneer of surface innovation and a leader in premium multi-material, multi-surface design, earned the title of “Most Innovative” for its Caesarstone ICON™ collection in the inaugural Innovation Hour competition held at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Orlando, Florida on February 17th.

Innovation Hour, held on the first day of KBIS, is billed as “a fast-paced, design-forward ‘show + tell’ session that highlights emerging materials, product features, and design details that are quietly shaping the future of kitchen and bath spaces.” Eight exhibitors competed for three winning titles (Most Innovative, Most Unexpected, I’d Spec That Tomorrow) selected by the audience via live voting on site during the event.

A captivating story with a future-focused edge

To earn the Most Innovative title, Caesarstone’s Mor Krisher, Caesarstone’s Product Design Director, showcased Caesarstone ICON™. Caesarstone ICON™ is the brand’s entirely new category of surfaces that marks a significant milestone in the industry. All Caesarstone ICON™ surfaces are crystalline silica-free* and include ~85% recycled materials, delivering a revolutionary blend of beauty, sustainability, and performance.

Krisher engaged the audience with his perspective on Caesarstone ICON™, recounting its journey from ambitious idea to R&D and finally, to trailblazing product. “People connected with Caesarstone ICON™ because it is sustainable, but also because of its story”, says Krisher. “I spoke about how we turned this product from concept to reality, focusing on the design and R&D aspects. I think the pioneering narrative resonated with a lot of listeners.” 

“This win is a great recognition for Caesarstone’s future-focused, progressive approach to surface innovation,” shares Lindsey Waldrep, Caesarstone’s vice president of marketing. “From day one of the company more than 37 years ago, we’ve been the inventor of surface categories, and that continues today with Caesarstone ICON™. We’re thrilled that specifying kitchen and bath designers realize the importance and possibilities of this exceptional new surface solution.”

In recognition of the Most Innovative honor, Caesarstone’s Krisher and Waldrep were interviewed by Chelsie Butler on the From the Tap podcast, recorded on site at the show. From the Tap is a production of KBB (Kitchen and Bath Business), the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and KBIS. The episode aired live from KBIS, and the recording will be available soon across all popular podcast streaming platforms.

A true Caesarstone achievement 

Caesarstone has always championed innovation, using cutting-edge R&D to forge new paths in the surface industry. As a global-leading category, Caesarstone ICON™ shines bright, highlighting the strength of our product innovation.

To date, Caesarstone ICON™ has won six leading international awards—reflecting not only the ingenuity of Caesarstone’s R&D department, but also the capabilities, commitment, and vision of its global teams. With 59 Caesarstone ICON™ models currently available in global markets—and a new collection to be unveiled in the coming months—Caesarstone is driven by this product category’s iconic achievements, and looks forward to the future with pride.

###

^{*May contain traces of crystalline silica less than 1%.}

Caesarstone (CSTE) designs and manufactures premium surfaces for residential and commercial spaces. A global industry leader, Caesarstone leverages cutting-edge technology to redefine standards of aesthetics, durability, and sustainability. The company offers an extensive portfolio of over 100 colors, inspiring creativity and self-expression for a wide range of applications for indoor and outdoor living.

Among the pioneers of quartz surfaces, Caesarstone has since expanded into porcelain and natural stone and recently introduced a completely new category of advanced fusion surfaces. As a trusted design partner in over 50 countries worldwide, Caesarstone crafts beautiful, sustainable surfaces designed to last a lifetime.

For more information, please visit studio.caesarstoneus.com/icon.

For more information on Caesarstone, visit caesarstoneus.com, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Media contact:
Irene Williams
irene@msg2mkt.com
615.429.8492

ORLANDO, Fla. and CHARLOTTE, N.C. April 17, 2026 /3BL/ – Caesarstone, the pioneer of surface innovation and a leader in premium multi-material, multi-surface design, earned the title of “Most Innovative” for its Caesarstone ICON™ collection in the inaugural Innovation Hour competition held at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Orlando, Florida on February 17th.

Innovation Hour, held on the first day of KBIS, is billed as “a fast-paced, design-forward ‘show + tell’ session that highlights emerging materials, product features, and design details that are quietly shaping the future of kitchen and bath spaces.” Eight exhibitors competed for three winning titles (Most Innovative, Most Unexpected, I’d Spec That Tomorrow) selected by the audience via live voting on site during the event.

A captivating story with a future-focused edge

To earn the Most Innovative title, Caesarstone’s Mor Krisher, Caesarstone’s Product Design Director, showcased Caesarstone ICON™. Caesarstone ICON™ is the brand’s entirely new category of surfaces that marks a significant milestone in the industry. All Caesarstone ICON™ surfaces are crystalline silica-free* and include ~85% recycled materials, delivering a revolutionary blend of beauty, sustainability, and performance.

Krisher engaged the audience with his perspective on Caesarstone ICON™, recounting its journey from ambitious idea to R&D and finally, to trailblazing product. “People connected with Caesarstone ICON™ because it is sustainable, but also because of its story”, says Krisher. “I spoke about how we turned this product from concept to reality, focusing on the design and R&D aspects. I think the pioneering narrative resonated with a lot of listeners.” 

“This win is a great recognition for Caesarstone’s future-focused, progressive approach to surface innovation,” shares Lindsey Waldrep, Caesarstone’s vice president of marketing. “From day one of the company more than 37 years ago, we’ve been the inventor of surface categories, and that continues today with Caesarstone ICON™. We’re thrilled that specifying kitchen and bath designers realize the importance and possibilities of this exceptional new surface solution.”

In recognition of the Most Innovative honor, Caesarstone’s Krisher and Waldrep were interviewed by Chelsie Butler on the From the Tap podcast, recorded on site at the show. From the Tap is a production of KBB (Kitchen and Bath Business), the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and KBIS. The episode aired live from KBIS, and the recording will be available soon across all popular podcast streaming platforms.

A true Caesarstone achievement 

Caesarstone has always championed innovation, using cutting-edge R&D to forge new paths in the surface industry. As a global-leading category, Caesarstone ICON™ shines bright, highlighting the strength of our product innovation.

To date, Caesarstone ICON™ has won six leading international awards—reflecting not only the ingenuity of Caesarstone’s R&D department, but also the capabilities, commitment, and vision of its global teams. With 59 Caesarstone ICON™ models currently available in global markets—and a new collection to be unveiled in the coming months—Caesarstone is driven by this product category’s iconic achievements, and looks forward to the future with pride.

###

^{*May contain traces of crystalline silica less than 1%.}

Caesarstone (CSTE) designs and manufactures premium surfaces for residential and commercial spaces. A global industry leader, Caesarstone leverages cutting-edge technology to redefine standards of aesthetics, durability, and sustainability. The company offers an extensive portfolio of over 100 colors, inspiring creativity and self-expression for a wide range of applications for indoor and outdoor living.

Among the pioneers of quartz surfaces, Caesarstone has since expanded into porcelain and natural stone and recently introduced a completely new category of advanced fusion surfaces. As a trusted design partner in over 50 countries worldwide, Caesarstone crafts beautiful, sustainable surfaces designed to last a lifetime.

For more information, please visit studio.caesarstoneus.com/icon.

For more information on Caesarstone, visit caesarstoneus.com, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Media contact:
Irene Williams
irene@msg2mkt.com
615.429.8492

ORLANDO, Fla. and CHARLOTTE, N.C. April 17, 2026 /3BL/ – Caesarstone, the pioneer of surface innovation and a leader in premium multi-material, multi-surface design, earned the title of “Most Innovative” for its Caesarstone ICON™ collection in the inaugural Innovation Hour competition held at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Orlando, Florida on February 17th.

Innovation Hour, held on the first day of KBIS, is billed as “a fast-paced, design-forward ‘show + tell’ session that highlights emerging materials, product features, and design details that are quietly shaping the future of kitchen and bath spaces.” Eight exhibitors competed for three winning titles (Most Innovative, Most Unexpected, I’d Spec That Tomorrow) selected by the audience via live voting on site during the event.

A captivating story with a future-focused edge

To earn the Most Innovative title, Caesarstone’s Mor Krisher, Caesarstone’s Product Design Director, showcased Caesarstone ICON™. Caesarstone ICON™ is the brand’s entirely new category of surfaces that marks a significant milestone in the industry. All Caesarstone ICON™ surfaces are crystalline silica-free* and include ~85% recycled materials, delivering a revolutionary blend of beauty, sustainability, and performance.

Krisher engaged the audience with his perspective on Caesarstone ICON™, recounting its journey from ambitious idea to R&D and finally, to trailblazing product. “People connected with Caesarstone ICON™ because it is sustainable, but also because of its story”, says Krisher. “I spoke about how we turned this product from concept to reality, focusing on the design and R&D aspects. I think the pioneering narrative resonated with a lot of listeners.” 

“This win is a great recognition for Caesarstone’s future-focused, progressive approach to surface innovation,” shares Lindsey Waldrep, Caesarstone’s vice president of marketing. “From day one of the company more than 37 years ago, we’ve been the inventor of surface categories, and that continues today with Caesarstone ICON™. We’re thrilled that specifying kitchen and bath designers realize the importance and possibilities of this exceptional new surface solution.”

In recognition of the Most Innovative honor, Caesarstone’s Krisher and Waldrep were interviewed by Chelsie Butler on the From the Tap podcast, recorded on site at the show. From the Tap is a production of KBB (Kitchen and Bath Business), the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and KBIS. The episode aired live from KBIS, and the recording will be available soon across all popular podcast streaming platforms.

A true Caesarstone achievement 

Caesarstone has always championed innovation, using cutting-edge R&D to forge new paths in the surface industry. As a global-leading category, Caesarstone ICON™ shines bright, highlighting the strength of our product innovation.

To date, Caesarstone ICON™ has won six leading international awards—reflecting not only the ingenuity of Caesarstone’s R&D department, but also the capabilities, commitment, and vision of its global teams. With 59 Caesarstone ICON™ models currently available in global markets—and a new collection to be unveiled in the coming months—Caesarstone is driven by this product category’s iconic achievements, and looks forward to the future with pride.

###

^{*May contain traces of crystalline silica less than 1%.}

Caesarstone (CSTE) designs and manufactures premium surfaces for residential and commercial spaces. A global industry leader, Caesarstone leverages cutting-edge technology to redefine standards of aesthetics, durability, and sustainability. The company offers an extensive portfolio of over 100 colors, inspiring creativity and self-expression for a wide range of applications for indoor and outdoor living.

Among the pioneers of quartz surfaces, Caesarstone has since expanded into porcelain and natural stone and recently introduced a completely new category of advanced fusion surfaces. As a trusted design partner in over 50 countries worldwide, Caesarstone crafts beautiful, sustainable surfaces designed to last a lifetime.

For more information, please visit studio.caesarstoneus.com/icon.

For more information on Caesarstone, visit caesarstoneus.com, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Media contact:
Irene Williams
irene@msg2mkt.com
615.429.8492