The Importance of Operational Technology in Cyber Security?

Operational Technology in cyber security is a rapidly evolving field, rooted in industrial control systems and expanding into the interconnected world of the Internet of Things (IoT).

Assaults on operational technology (OT) systems can result in drastic outcomes, ranging from shutdowns and outages to leakages and even more critical impacts.

The 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack stands out as a notable instance of such an OT system breach.

This specific event led to the temporary suspension of almost half of the East Coast’s (of the United States) gasoline and jet fuel distribution, triggering extensive fuel scarcities and a surge in prices

We explore what operational technology in cyber security is, how it’s utilised, and its importance in today’s digital landscape.

Defining operational technology in cyber security

Operational Technology, or OT, refers to the hardware and software used to change, monitor or control physical devices, processes and events in the enterprise.

This technology is distinct from Information Technology (IT), which is typically used for data-centric computing in a business setting.

OT is used in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, utilities, and transportation. It is the technology that keeps factories running, power flowing and trains on time.

However, as these systems become more interconnected and reliant on the internet, they also become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

The role of OT in cyber security

Operational Technology plays a crucial role in cyber security.

As OT systems control physical processes, a cyber attack on these systems can have real-world consequences.

For example, a successful attack on a power grid could cause widespread blackouts, while an attack on a water treatment plant could contaminate a city’s water supply.

Therefore, securing OT systems is of paramount importance.

This involves not just protecting the systems themselves, but also ensuring that they can continue to operate safely and effectively even if an attack does occur.

This is where the field of operational technology in cyber security comes in.

OT cyber security: challenges and solutions

Securing Operational Technology in cyber security is a complex task with many unique challenges.

Unlike other IT systems, OT systems are often designed to run continuously for years or even decades.

This means that they may be running outdated software that is vulnerable to attack and that updating or patching this software can be difficult or even impossible without disrupting operations.

Furthermore, OT systems are often highly specialised and customised, meaning that off-the-shelf security solutions may not be suitable.

Instead, security measures need to be tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of each OT system.

Addressing the challenges

Despite these challenges, there are solutions available for operational technology in cyber security.

One of the most important is to implement strong access controls, to ensure that only authorised personnel can access the OT systems.

This can help to prevent both external attacks and internal threats, such as disgruntled employees or contractors.

Another key solution is to use network segmentation to isolate the OT systems from the rest of the organisation’s network.

This can help to prevent an attack on one part of the network from spreading to the OT systems.

Emerging solutions in OT cyber security

As the field of operational technology in cyber security evolves, new solutions are being developed to address the unique challenges of securing Operational Technology.

These include advanced threat detection systems that can identify and respond to unusual activity on the OT network and machine learning algorithms that can predict and prevent potential attacks.

Another emerging solution is the use of secure remote access solutions, which allow technicians to access and maintain the OT systems remotely, without exposing them to the internet.

This can help to reduce the risk of cyber attacks, while also improving operational efficiency.

The future of operational technology in cyber security

The future of Operational Technology in cyber security is likely to be shaped by the ongoing convergence of OT and IT.

As more and more OT systems are connected to the internet, the line between OT and IT is becoming increasingly blurred.

This is creating new challenges for cyber security, but also new opportunities for innovation and improvement.

One of the key trends in this area is the increasing use of cloud-based solutions for OT cyber security.

These solutions can provide a scalable and flexible way to secure OT systems, allowing organisations to quickly adapt to changing threats and technologies.

Another important trend is the growing recognition of the importance of cyber security in the design and implementation of OT systems.

By incorporating cyber security considerations from the outset, organisations can build more secure and resilient OT systems, reducing the risk of cyber-attacks and their potential impact.

Conclusion

Operational Technology in cyber security is a complex and rapidly evolving field, but one that is crucial for the safety and security of our increasingly interconnected world.

By understanding what operational technology in cyber security is, we can better protect our critical infrastructure and ensure the smooth operation of our industries and services.

If you’re considering a future in cyber security, explore the Institute of Data’s Cyber Security programme.

Alternatively, if you’d like personalised guidance on your career path in cyber security, don’t hesitate to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss the programme.