Securing Your Facility: The Crucial Role of a Robust Network

As industries continue to evolve and adopt new digital solutions, the risk of cyberattacks on operational technology (OT) systems has significantly increased. Whether managing a grain facility, manufacturing plant, or data center, securing your facility's network has become paramount. David Smit, Operational Technology Architect at Interstates, addressed these challenges during his talk at the 2024 GEAPS Exchange, emphasizing the importance of building a resilient network to safeguard operations. In his talk, he explored the idea of how creating a strong OT network can prepare any facility for future threats while supporting operational goals. 

Understanding OT Networks and Their Distinct Role 

OT networks differ significantly from traditional information technology (IT) networks. While IT systems handle administrative tasks like email and file sharing, OT networks manage critical functions such as machinery control, plant operations, and automated processes. Unlike an IT system failure, where the loss of a service might cause inconvenience, an OT network compromise can result in significant physical harm, equipment damage, and costly downtime. 

The increasing interconnection between OT and IT systems on the plant floor adds new layers of vulnerability. As facilities expand their digital presence, connecting operational and corporate zones for better visibility and control, they expose OT networks to potential external threats. Protecting your OT environments from cybersecurity risks requires a strategic approach that addresses the unique needs of these systems. 

Building a Multi-Layered Defense Approach 

To effectively secure your facility, adopting a layered defense approach is critical. Relying on one solution will not protect against the vast array of cyber threats targeting your OT systems. Instead, facilities must implement several complementary strategies to reinforce network security: 

1. Network Segmentation and Firewalls. Network segmentation involves separating critical systems from less secure areas of the network. By creating distinct zones for OT and IT networks, you limit the spread of any cyber incidents that may occur. Firewalls add an essential layer of security by filtering traffic between these zones and controlling access to sensitive areas. Minimal requirements include firewall segmentation between North and South traffic. For enhanced security, also consider firewalls for East to West traffic. This will provide even further isolation and control. 
2. Software-Defined Networking (SDN). SDN offers enhanced control and visibility across the network. This solution enables real-time adjustments to network configurations, allowing facilities to quickly isolate threats and quarantine compromised devices. This flexibility is crucial for modern OT environments where connectivity demands are increasing, but security risks are also intensifying. SDN provides instant network segmentation for both North to South and East to West traffic. 
3. Employee Training and Awareness. Your employees play a vital role in securing your plant’s OT systems. Cybercriminals frequently use phishing attacks to gain access to corporate networks. Educating employees about potential threats and conducting regular cybersecurity training can significantly reduce the likelihood of a successful breach. Awareness is especially important as artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, such as ChatGPT, are making phishing attempts increasingly sophisticated and difficult to detect. 

The Role of External Audits and Continuous Monitoring 

While firewalls, network segmentation, and SDN solutions can provide robust security, ongoing monitoring, and independent security audits remain essential for maintaining your network integrity. By deploying monitoring tools like Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), and Network Performance Monitoring, facilities can detect unusual network activity and respond to potential threats in real-time. Additionally, regular external security audits offer a fresh perspective on system vulnerabilities and can provide you with actionable recommendations to further enhance security measures. 

Future-Proofing Your Facility’s Network 

As the pace of digital transformation continues to accelerate, facility owners and operators must future-proof their networks to remain resilient against evolving cyber threats. Investing in secure OT infrastructure, implementing comprehensive defense strategies, and staying ahead of emerging technologies will position your facility for long-term success. 

By focusing on network segmentation, SDN solutions, employee education, and continuous monitoring, any facility—regardless of industry—can build a robust defense against cyberattacks. Creating a secure and reliable OT network will not only protect critical operations but also ensure your facility is prepared to meet operational and cybersecurity goals in an increasingly connected world.