OTsecurity

OT security, or operational technology security, is the practice of protecting industrial control systems and other operational technology assets from cyber threats and physical hazards. It focuses on systems such as SCADA, DCS, PLCs, and other industrial networks that monitor and control physical processes in sectors like manufacturing, energy, water, and transportation. Unlike traditional IT security, OT security emphasizes availability, safety, and reliability, often operating under strict real-time constraints and long asset lifecycles.

Threats to OT environments include targeted malware and ransomware, supply chain intrusions, phishing that compromises engineering workstations, remote-access abuse, insider risk, and sophisticated nation-state campaigns. Attacks can disrupt production, degrade product quality, or endanger public safety if safety systems are affected. The convergence of IT and OT networks in some facilities has increased exposure to cyber risk, while legacy equipment and downtime constraints complicate patching and software updates.

Defensive practices employ defense in depth and network segmentation between IT and OT, strict access control, asset inventories, change management, and continuous monitoring. Anomaly detection and intrusion prevention rely on specialized OT-aware tooling, which may include network telemetry, protocol analysis, and safety-system-aware incident response. Incident response plans in OT contexts emphasize safety considerations and failover procedures.

Standards and frameworks guide OT security. IEC 62443 covers risk assessment, secure lifecycle, and secure integration of industrial control systems. NIST SP 800-82 and its successors provide guidance for ICS security. Sector-specific requirements exist, such as NERC CIP for the electric grid and related regulatory programs. ISO 27019 adapts information security concepts to energy sector OT environments.

Common challenges include aging and proprietary equipment, limited downtime for maintenance, long asset lifecycles, vendor interoperability, and shortages of skilled OT cybersecurity professionals. Organizations often balance security investments with operational reliability and safety, adopting governance structures, training, and supplier risk management.