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What Is Operational Technologies (OT)?

What is Operational Technologies?

Operational Technologies is a category of computing that consists of hardware and software to monitor industrial machinery and process for all sectors.

“Operational Technology (OT) is hardware and software that detects or causes a change, through the direct monitoring and/or control of industrial equipment, assets, processes and events”

Although OT existed long time ago, it became known after the rise of automation in the industrial sector. The main purpose was to put in place a network of machinery that function through automation. OT includes the Industrial control systems (CS) which include: the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS).

OT VS IT

Even though IT and OT have similarities, they are separate technologies.  Managed by the CIO, IT focus includes Infrastructure, Security, and Governance. IT handles information and data. Whereas OT focus on yields, quality, and efficiency. It handles machines and process.

Today, IT and OT are converging to secure the OT and increase efficiency. Consequently, OT machinery are connected through an IT networking exposing them to the internet. With the addition of third-part remote access for maintenance purposes, securing the OT is becoming primordial.

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Read our article to learn how to secure Industrial Control Systems from modern world threats

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