Key characteristics of OT networks:
Designed for reliability and availability.
OT networks must be able to operate 24/7/365 without interruption. This is because OT systems often control critical infrastructure, such as power grids and water treatment plants.
Isolation from IT networks and also segmented within.
This is to protect OT systems from cyberattacks that originate on the IT network.
Within OT networks it is also prudent to provision sensible segmentation with VLAN’s etc to guard against cyberattacks and broadcasting storms.
Adequate hardening of the OT network will ensure high availability.
Use a variety of proprietary protocols.
OT devices often use proprietary protocols that are not compatible with IT networks. This can make it difficult to manage and secure OT networks.
Have a long lifecycle.
OT devices can be in service for many years, even decades. This means that they may not be running the latest security patches, which can make them more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
IT department incompatibility.
The legacy de-facto in most organisations is for their usual IT support to design & maintain OT networks that can lead to severe future challenges.
OT networks typically have infra structure equipment that is more specialised to handle industrial networks such as support for unique protocols & topologies, low latency, robustness and more.
Examples of OT devices:
- Manufacturing CNC machines & assembly lines
- Robotic & measuring equipment.
- Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems
- Distributed control systems (DCS)
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Industrial sensors and actuators
- Human-machine interfaces (HMIs)
- Industrial IoT (IIoT) devices
- Building Information Management (BIM)
- Machine Vision Systems (MV)
- Existing dumb equipment that are retrofitted.
- Fusion sensor nodes.
OT networks are essential for the operation of modern infrastructure and industrial processes. However, they are also increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. It is important for organizations to take steps to secure their OT networks, such as segmenting the network, implementing security controls, and regularly patching and updating OT devices.
PACIFICfactory support
We are experienced in architecting & implementing OT networks securely & cost effectively that provide a rugged backbone for your manufacturing environment.
PACIFICfactory use renowned equipment such as MOXA that we are accredited for.