Hardware and software controlling physical processes—industrial systems, SCADA, building management.
Operational Technology (OT) is hardware and software that monitors and controls physical processes—industrial control systems, SCADA, building management systems, and similar technology. OT differs from IT in priorities (availability over confidentiality), lifecycles (decades vs years), and risk profiles (physical safety implications). OT security has become critical as these systems connect to networks and face cyber threats. Attacks on OT can cause physical damage, safety incidents, and service disruption.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
OT environments face unique security challenges. Traditional IT security approaches don't always apply. If you have OT systems, develop appropriate OT security capabilities—the risks are different from IT.