Cybersecurity Awareness in Plex ERP: Best Practices for Cloud Login Management

 

As manufacturers increasingly rely on cloud-based platforms like Plex ERP to streamline operations, cybersecurity becomes a critical pillar of business continuity. With sensitive production data, customer information, and supply chain workflows housed in the cloud, protecting user access is no longer optional—it’s essential.

This article explores how Plex ERP aligns with cybersecurity best practices, including NIST 800-171 guidelines, and outlines actionable steps manufacturers can take to secure their cloud login environments.

Plex ERP’s Security Framework: Built for the Cloud

Plex has implemented a robust identity and access management system that supports secure user authentication and flexible policy enforcement. Here are key highlights:

Password Policy Based on NIST 800-171

In alignment with NIST’s recommendations, Plex has eliminated mandatory password expiration. This change is based on research showing that frequent password resets often lead to insecure practices—such as predictable patterns or writing passwords on sticky notes.

Instead, Plex enforces:

  • A minimum password length of 10 characters

  • An entropy requirement equivalent to 108 guesses

  • No expiration policy, unless a compromise is suspected

This approach improves security while reducing user friction.

IP Address Restrictions

Plex supports IP address control to restrict access to specific applications or the entire system. This feature allows administrators to:

  • Limit access to trusted networks

  • Prevent unauthorized logins from unknown or risky locations

IP addresses are configured using the Valid IP Addresses application and applied through the Security Roles Manager or Security Manager.

Support for Third-Party Identity Providers

For organizations with custom audit requirements, Plex recommends integrating third-party IdPs such as Azure AD or Okta. These platforms offer:

  • Custom password policies

  • Advanced multi-factor authentication (MFA)

  • Centralized identity brokering via IAM

This flexibility allows manufacturers to tailor their security posture to meet internal and external compliance standards.

Best Practices for Cloud Login Management

Even with Plex’s built-in protections, user behavior plays a vital role in maintaining a secure environment. Here are essential best practices every manufacturer should adopt:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid reusing passwords across systems. Encourage employees to use password managers to generate and store complex credentials securely.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Where possible, integrate MFA through third-party IdPs. This adds an extra layer of protection against credential theft.

3. Never Share Passwords

Each user should have a unique login. Sharing credentials compromises accountability and increases the risk of unauthorized access.

4. Monitor Login Activity

Regularly audit login logs and access patterns. Look for anomalies such as logins from unfamiliar IP addresses or unusual times.

5. Restrict Access by Role

Use role-based access controls to ensure users only access the data and applications necessary for their job functions.

6. Educate Employees

Cybersecurity awareness training should be a regular part of onboarding and ongoing development. Teach employees how to recognize phishing attempts, secure their credentials, and report suspicious activity.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Plex ERP provides a strong foundation with NIST-aligned password policies, IP address controls, and support for enterprise-grade identity providers. But it’s up to manufacturers to implement smart login practices and foster a culture of security across the organization.

By combining platform capabilities with proactive user management, manufacturers can confidently protect their operations in the cloud.

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