Site icon

Cybersecurity and Operational Technology

Not all technology is created equal, even if it all seems to serve the same function. Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) are two particular strains of digital systems that, while seemingly similar, serve radically similar functions for an organization. That being said, IT and OT are merging due in no small part to industrial applications of IoT technology. But as these traditionally separate domains integrate, they also bring forward a unique array of cybersecurity risks and organizational challenges. 

 

What Is Operational Technology?

Operational Technology refers to the hardware and software used to change, monitor or control the enterprise’s physical devices, processes, and events, including that management of software and physical machinery. Operational technology is a foundational part of any utility or industrial organization, including operations in water treatment, power production and distribution, and manufacturing. 

On the other hand, Information Technology systems refer to the application of computers and telecommunications equipment to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data. IT systems primarily deal with information processing, data management, internet functionality, and software applications.

The main difference between OT and IT lies in their primary objectives. OT systems are designed to interact with physical systems, emphasizing the management of operational capabilities and efficiencies. They are often built with a long lifespan in mind and can remain in operation for several decades. Conversely, IT systems are intended for processing and storing data, and their design is focused more on data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. 

 

What Is the Industrial Internet of Things?

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the application of the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in the industrial sector. It involves the interconnection of machines, devices, and assets, enabling them to communicate and share data with humans in real time.

Unlike the general IoT, which includes consumer devices like smart home appliances and wearables, IIoT focuses explicitly on industrial applications. These applications typically have more stringent reliability, efficiency, and safety requirements. 

Here’s how IIoT is applied in the industrial context:

While IIoT brings substantial benefits, it also presents new challenges, particularly around data security and privacy. As such, robust cybersecurity measures are essential in any IIoT implementation.

 

IT and OT Convergence

IIoT fundamentally changed the name of the game when it comes to monitoring physical processes and systems… most importantly, it folds IT capabilities into physical system management to leverage data-gathering and analytics. 

Key factors driving IT and OT convergence include:

However, despite these benefits, IT/OT convergence also presents challenges:

Overall, while the convergence of IT and OT has the potential to deliver significant benefits, it needs to be approached strategically, considering both the opportunities and the challenges it presents.

 

What Are Common Threats Against Operational Technology Infrastructure?

OT systems face a unique set of cybersecurity threats due to their intersection with the physical world and their increasing connection to IT networks.

Here are some common cybersecurity threats against OT systems:

As OT systems increasingly connect with IT systems, they become exposed to even more cybersecurity threats. The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) has built out a guide document for operational technology–Special Publication 800-82. Therefore, organizations must adopt robust cybersecurity measures tailored to OT environments to protect their critical operations.

 

Ensure the Security of Your OT and IT Infrastructure with Lazarus Alliance

If you’re working with, or supporting clients with, extensive operational technology infrastructure, then security and compliance just got a bit more complex. Don’t worry, though–with Lazarus Alliance, you can combine compliance, security, and risk management across all IT and OT digital systems.

Contact us to learn more about Lazarus Alliance.

[wpforms id=”137574″]

Exit mobile version