Operational technology (OT) encompasses the hardware and software responsible for controlling physical processes and devices within industrial environments. Its role is indispensable in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, transportation, and water and wastewater management. Despite its significance, OT systems are alarmingly susceptible to cyber threats. Malicious actors can exploit vulnerabilities within these systems to commandeer critical infrastructure, resulting in widespread devastation and operational disruptions.
OT cybersecurity serves as a pivotal defense mechanism against cyber threats, focusing on safeguarding OT systems from potential attacks. Implementing effective OT cybersecurity solutions can facilitate the identification, prevention, and mitigation of cyber incidents targeting OT systems. The significance of OT cybersecurity has been amplified as OT systems continue to integrate more extensively with IT networks, subsequently heightening their susceptibility to cyber intrusions. OT systems often consist of legacy infrastructure that was not originally designed with security as a primary focus, rendering them more vulnerable to modern cyber threats. OT systems are frequently isolated from conventional IT networks, making the task of implementing comprehensive security protocols and measures notably more complex and challenging.