What is OT Security?
Operational Technology (OT) Security focuses on protecting the systems, networks, and devices that monitor and control industrial operations. Unlike Information Technology (IT) security, which prioritizes confidentiality, OT security places the highest priority on safety and availability.
IT vs. OT Security
| Aspect | IT Security | OT Security |
|---|---|---|
| Priority | Confidentiality | Safety & Availability |
| Patching | Regular cycles | Planned outages only |
| Lifecycle | 3-5 years | 15-30 years |
| Protocols | TCP/IP | Modbus, OPC, DNP3 |
Key Challenges
- Legacy systems that cannot be easily patched or updated
- IT/OT convergence creating new attack paths
- Safety requirements that limit security control options
- Vendor dependencies for proprietary industrial systems
- Limited visibility into OT network traffic
Standards and Frameworks
IEC 62443 is the primary international standard for OT security. Other relevant frameworks include NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NERC CIP for electric utilities, and sector-specific regulations.
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