TEMPEST-Certified Location
vs. RÖS-Certified Product

When comparing a TEMPEST-certified location with a RÖS-certified product, we are looking at two different types of security measures designed to protect against compromising electromagnetic emissions (EMSEC).
Here’s a description of the differences between these two concepts:

TEMPEST-Certified Location

1. Definition

A TEMPEST-certified location refers to a physical space, such as a room or building, that has been inspected and approved according to TEMPEST standards to ensure that no compromising electromagnetic emissions can be intercepted outside the secure zone.

2 Protection Level

The location has undergone extensive testing to identify and eliminate potential leaks of electromagnetic signals. This can include the installation of special shielding materials, filters, and other measures to reduce the risk of signals being intercepted by unauthorized parties.

TEMPEST standards are very rigorous and internationally recognized, especially within NATO and the U.S., and often require that the entire location meets a very high level of security.

3 Application

Used primarily in environments where maximum security is critical, such as military and intelligence-based operations. All devices and equipment used within the location must comply with TEMPEST requirements.

 This protection covers all electronic devices used within the secure zone and ensures that no signals can be intercepted outside of the specific location.

 One issue with a TEMPEST Certified Location is that no electric device other then TEMPEST Certified products can be added in the location. Even a lamp or a heater would comromize the Location.

RÖS-Certified Product

1. Definition

A RÖS-certified product is that the product itself is tested and approved according to the Swedish RÖS standards (Röjande Signal) to ensure that it does not emit compromising electromagnetic emissions that can be intercepted.

2 Protection Level

The product has undergone testing to identify and minimize any emissions of signals that could be used for eavesdropping. This measurement is specific to the product in question and ensures that it meets the requirements set by Swedish security standards.

RÖS standards are tailored to Swedish security needs and guidelines, and while they are strict, they are usually more focused on specific national requirements than broad international applications.

3 Application

A RÖS-certified product is used in security-conscious environments in Sweden, particularly within the defense and other government sectors, to protect sensitive information. Unlike TEMPEST, the focus here is on ensuring that the product itself does not emit compromising signals.

The product can be used in a variety of environments, including within buildings that do not necessarily need to be fully shielded, since the product itself is secure.

A RÖS-Certified Product can be moved and used anyware because it´s the product itself that is EMC-protected

Summary

  • A TEMPEST-certified location involves a security assessment of an entire physical space, covering all electronic devices and signals within that space.
  • A RÖS-certified product is a specific product that has been tested to ensure it does not emit compromising signals itself.
  • Summary, A RÖS-Certified product has more flexibility and can be moved and used anyware because its the product itself that is EMC-protected.