IT/OT convergence
IT/OT convergence, the integration of Information Technology systems with Operational Technology systems.
Based on the Purdue Model, OT devices fall into the Level0 to Level3 categories. Devices like sensors and actuators, PLC's (Programmable Logic Controllers), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and human-machine interfaces (HMI), host systems like control and monitoring systems. All this data and control must be accessed safely, securely and efficiently or separated completely. Data-centric computing are done by IT systems; OT systems monitor events, process and devices, collect data and make adjustments in enterprise and industrial operations.
In order to adopt the new Industry 4.0 standard (smart manufacturing) and the Fourth industrial Revolution one must understand that the Purdue Model creates an expensive, complex and non-user friendly situation when adopting the DiD (defense-in-depth) strategy.
Purdue Model
In comes the IIoT Model (Industrial Internet of Things). "IIoT derives efficiency and performance primarily from cloud computing. Organizations adopting IIoT can leverage benefits including flexibility and scalability and are able to perform processes native to public cloud computing. "
IIoT Model
Consider adopting SASE. A Zero trust approach with cloud computing could be the very answer to simplifying network infrastructure, devices and support. Eliminates complex firewalls or multiple firewalls containing separated segments, connections and implements cybersecurity right at the onset.
IT/OT convergence success can benefit highly from project teams such as;
- Having an IoT advisor
- High collaboration between the IT and OT sides
- Understanding how to design and integrate IoT
- Identifying Legacy OT systems and tool discovery
- Train staff and gaining expertise
- Planning for scale
Halolution is your trusted advisor when it comes to implementing and converging IT/OT. Our technology distribution network offers a wide variety of companies offering SASE, SDWAN and cybersecurity solutions that can cater to your Manufacturing, Retail, Transportation, Energy, Medical and pharmaceutical OT business needs.
“All great beginnings start in the dark, when the moon greets you to a new day at midnight.” – Shannon L. Alder
Wikipedia contributors. (2024, September 27). Purdue Enterprise Reference Architecture. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purdue_Enterprise_Reference_Architecture
Benefits of adopting Secure Access Service Edge for operational technology security. (n.d.). ISACA. https://www.isaca.org/resources/news-and-trends/industry-news/2022/benefits-of-adopting-secure-access-service-edge-for-operational-technology-security
Lam, S. (2023, September 29). What Is IT/OT Convergence? Benefits, Challenges, & Examples. it-ot-convergence-benefits-challenges-examples. https://blog.enconnex.com/it-ot-convergence-benefits-challenges-examples
Bigelow, S. J., & Lutkevich, B. (2024, April 9). What is IT/OT convergence? Everything you need to know. Search IT Operations. https://www.techtarget.com/searchitoperations/definition/IT-OT-convergence
Wikipedia contributors. (2024b, December 17). Fourth Industrial Revolution. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Industrial_Revolution
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