The Overlooked World of Operational Technology (OT): Beyond Traditional IT
When we think of Information Technology (IT), we often picture the familiar realm of laptops, servers, and cloud applications. IT departments set the rules, monitor networks, and fend off cyber threats. But what about the myriad of devices that fall outside this traditional IT umbrella? Welcome to the world of Operational Technology (OT), a domain that is often overlooked yet crucial to our modern infrastructure.
Beyond the Carpeted Office
Operational Technology encompasses the hardware and software used to monitor and control physical processes and devices. From factory floors to street intersections, OT systems are integral to industries like manufacturing, energy, transportation, and utilities. These systems manage critical functions such as assembly lines, power distribution, and rail network operations. Unlike IT systems, OT prioritizes availability and reliability, given its role in maintaining essential infrastructure 1.
What Exactly Are OT and IoT?
OT systems are sometimes described informally as “IT for the parts of the organization that aren’t carpeted,” referring to areas and devices such as factory floors, industrial machinery, electrical switchgear, oil and gas flow valves, sewage pumping sites, power stations, railroad signals, traffic lights, speed cameras, weather sensors, and much more. These systems go by various names, including Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), and Internet of Things (IoT). While ICS refers to special-purpose electronic devices dedicated to monitoring and manipulating components like pumps and valves, SCADA encompasses the software and networks that make ICS function. OT serves as an umbrella term for ICS and SCADA, introduced by analysts in the mid-2000s.
When Consumer Meets Corporate
IoT devices, designed for consumer use, often find their way into corporate environments. These gadgets, such as doorbell cameras, smart thermostats, and Wi-Fi-enabled coffee makers, share the same tech DNA as OT devices. This overlap can spell trouble when it comes to security. Employees working from home may have IoT devices sharing the same network as their corporate laptops, and businesses might install consumer-grade devices in office settings without involving IT.
The Risk of Overlap
The convergence of IT and OT due to digital transformation initiatives has exposed OT environments to a wide array of cybersecurity threats. Legacy systems in OT often rely on aging hardware and software that were not designed with cybersecurity in mind. These systems are difficult to update or replace due to cost, complexity, and potential downtime implications. Limited patch management, lack of visibility, insider threats, and human error further exacerbate the risks.
Compliance and Regulatory Pressure
Industries that rely on OT must adhere to strict regulatory frameworks governing cybersecurity. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, operational disruptions, and reputational damage. The integration of OT systems with IT networks expands the attack surface, making OT environments vulnerable to threats that traditionally targeted IT.
Strengthening OT Security
Operational technology is vital for critical infrastructure, yet often overlooked, posing significant risks to safety and operational continuity. Cybersecurity leaders must prioritize OT vulnerabilities, driving visibility and robust security measures to prevent potentially catastrophic breaches. The growing convergence of IT and OT due to digital transformation initiatives has exposed OT environments to a wide array of cybersecurity threats, creating an urgent need for robust and tailored security solutions.
As we move forward in the digital age, the importance of OT cannot be overstated. It is essential for organizations to recognize the unique challenges and risks associated with OT and take proactive measures to secure these systems. By bridging the gap between IT and OT, businesses can ensure both data protection and operational continuity, safeguarding the entire organization and bolstering resilience.
Learn more about the rise of OT and IoT threats in our latest threat intelligence report.
In an upcoming post, we’ll dive deeper into the risks posed by IoT devices and why your organization needs to start thinking beyond laptops and servers when it comes to cyber hygiene.
