Security for operational technology: protecting your industrial infrastructure
The digitalization and networking of operational technology (OT) environments holds enormous potential for increasing efficiency and quality. At the same time, however, it increases complexity and the attack surface for cyber threats. OT security is therefore a decisive factor for the success and resilience of modern industrial processes.
Challenges in OT environments
OT systems, such as SCADA, ICS, IoT, control systems or distributed control systems (DCS), are characterized by long life cycles of 15 to 20 years or more. These long innovation cycles mean that many systems are inadequately protected against current cyber threats. In addition, many of these operational technology systems are restricted by regulatory requirements that make changes or upgrades considerably more difficult.
A further risk arises from the growing networking of OT and IT systems. While the increasing integration of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and cloud technologies into OT environments improves data utilization and process control, it also increases the risk of security breaches and malware attacks.
The most common challenges include
- No regulated areas of responsibility
- Legacy systems (outdated, no longer supported operating systems)
- Proprietary devices (controllers, sensors, motors, etc.)
- Remote access
Customized OT security strategies
To minimize these risks, we at CANCOM Austria AG develop tailor-made security solutions for your critical infrastructure. Based on proven frameworks such as ISO/IEC 62443 (Security for Industrial Automation and Control Systems) and NIST 800-82 (Guide to Operational Technology Security), we rely on standardized security architectures that are specifically tailored to OT environments.
Our security measures include
- Network segmentation: separation of IT and OT networks to shorten attack paths.
- Zero Trust models: Minimizing unauthorized access through strict access policies.
- Monitoring and detection: Use of tools for real-time detection and defense against known and unknown threats.
- Hardening OT devices: Protecting critical hardware and software from malware and advanced persistent threats (APTs).
Understanding the difference between IT and OT
The difference between IT and OT systems requires specialized security approaches. While IT systems are designed to protect data and applications, OT systems focus on the integrity and availability of industrial processes. These different priorities require
- Security strategies that take both IT and OT needs into account.
- Protection mechanisms that are specifically optimized for OT networks such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS).
Your advantages with CANCOM
With our comprehensive OT security solutions, you benefit from:
- Transparency and control over your OT infrastructure.
- Protective measures that are tailored to the requirements of your industry and your systems.
- Best practices that minimize risks and ensure the security of your operational technology infrastructure.
We work with you to develop a robust OT security strategy that protects your critical infrastructure and ensures the secure operation of your industrial processes. Rely on CANCOM to prepare your OT environments for the future - effectively, sustainably and adaptably.
