Moving legacy IoT systems to AWS IoT Core can be challenging, especially when devices rely solely on usernames and passwords for authentication.
However, there’s a way to make this migration smooth and minimize the corresponding risk.
Starting the Migration:
- Leverage Custom Authorizers: Utilize a custom Authorizer Lambda function of AWS IoT Core to authenticate devices using their existing credentials. This approach allows your devices to communicate with AWS without significant changes.
- Legacy Credentials: Transfer existing usernames and passwords to a database hosted on AWS or continue using the same database your legacy system used and allow Authorizer Lambda to access it.
- Update Device Endpoints: Change the MQTT endpoint on your devices to AWS IoT Core from the legacy system. Enable AWS IoT Core logs to monitor and debug connectivity issues.
Why This Is Just the First Step:
While this method eases the initial transition, it doesn’t fully integrate device identities into AWS IoT Core. Migrating only usernames and passwords doesn’t fully leverage AWS security and identity features.
Looking Ahead:
- Enhance Security: Plan to adopt AWS’s recommended practices for device authentication, such as using X.509 certificates and implementing fine-grained access controls using IoT Policies.
- Fully Integrate Identities: Work towards migrating device identities to AWS IoT Core to leverage security and management tools.
Conclusion:
Starting with this approach minimizes disruption and quickly connects your devices to AWS. However, for a secure and scalable IoT solution, it’s crucial to fully integrate with AWS IoT Core’s identity and security features in the subsequent phases of your migration.
👉 Are you considering migrating your existing IoT solution to AWS? Reach out, and I will help you to help minimize the risk of that initiative.