operatsioonitehnika

Operatsioonitehnika, often translated as operations technology or OT, refers to the hardware and software that detect or control changes in physical processes, systems, or devices. In essence, it's the technology that manages and monitors the physical world. This includes systems like industrial control systems (ICS), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and distributed control systems (DCS). OT is distinct from information technology (IT), which primarily focuses on data processing, storage, and communication within an organization's networks.

The primary purpose of OT is to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial processes and critical infrastructure. This can range from managing power grids and water treatment plants to controlling manufacturing assembly lines and overseeing oil and gas pipelines. OT systems often operate in real-time, requiring high availability and predictable performance to prevent disruptions, damage, or safety hazards. Their components typically include sensors, actuators, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).

Historically, OT and IT have operated in separate silos, with distinct networks, security protocols, and management structures. However, the increasing convergence of these two domains, often referred to as IT/OT convergence, is leading to greater integration. This convergence aims to leverage IT's capabilities for data analysis, remote monitoring, and improved decision-making within OT environments. While offering benefits like enhanced efficiency and predictive maintenance, it also introduces new cybersecurity challenges, as OT systems can become vulnerable to threats originating from IT networks. Securing OT environments is therefore a growing concern, requiring specialized approaches that consider the unique operational requirements and potential impacts of security incidents.