TLDR:
- Operational technology (OT) cybersecurity is crucial for critical infrastructure industries.
- OT networks face unique cyber threats that differ from conventional IT attacks.
In a recent article on CEOWORLD magazine, a senior OT security leader at IBM, Krishna Tata, discusses the optimal technology stack for securing OT infrastructure. OT refers to industrial control systems used for automation tasks and is vital for critical infrastructure industries such as Power, Oil and Gas, Automotive, Water Utilities, and Transportation. Cyberattacks on OT systems can result in significant disruptions and losses.
Krishna Tata highlights the unique characteristics of OT networks, the major cyber threats facing operational technology, and the technology infrastructure needed to protect OT networks. He emphasizes the importance of technologies such as Industrial Intrusion Detection Systems, Industrial Identity and Access Management Solutions, OT Firewalls, Network Access Control solutions, Uni-directional Gateways, SIEM tools, and Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response solutions.
Additionally, Krishna discusses key pillars of a successful OT cybersecurity program, including understanding the nuances of OT environments, creating an OT security reference architecture, and defining clear roles and responsibilities. He also addresses the future of OT security, especially with the growth of Industry 4.0 and IoT protocols, emphasizing the need for advanced technologies and strategies to secure OT networks in the evolving landscape.
Overall, the article provides valuable insights from an industry expert on building comprehensive operational security programs for critical infrastructure industries.