OT security is a top priority for CIOs
OT security has become an important topic for companies in industry and manufacturing worldwide. This is shown by the first "State of Industrial Networking Report" from Cisco. While the topic was previously underestimated, most future OT investments will flow into this area.
The increasing networking of OT (operational technology) and IT is creating a complex, dynamic environment that is susceptible to cyberattacks. Legacy systems, growing attack surfaces and an overstretched workforce are exacerbating the problem. At the same time, AI as a new technology will further improve the operation of industrial networks. "Operational technologies, and the industrial network in particular, have become a key differentiator for organizations globally," says Vikas Butaney, SVP/GM, Cisco Networking - SD-WAN, Multicloud and Industrial IoT. "IT and OT leaders recognize that strengthening their OT security is critical to driving business resilience, improving efficiency and preparing for the next wave of AI innovation."
Cybersecurity regulations in OT "extremely important"
According to the "State of Industrial Networking Report" study by Cisco, 89% of respondents consider compliance with cyber security regulations in OT to be very or extremely important. This shows that CIOs are increasingly aware that the greatest vulnerabilities lie in their operational infrastructure. At the same time, 92 percent of managers recognize the benefits of a uniform cybersecurity solution for OT and IT networks.
However, many companies are still a long way from comprehensive collaboration. For example, 41 percent of respondents report that their OT and IT teams work independently of each other. However, a unified approach can lead to greater cyber security (39 %), more efficiency (32 %) and more monitoring options (29 %). 48% of respondents believe AI is the technological advancement that will have the greatest impact on industrial networks over the next five years. Accordingly, AI will be a high priority for spending on automating tasks, improving network performance and providing predictions. At the same time, 49 percent expect AI to improve network management for IT and OT.
The most important lessons learned from the study
- Prioritization of cyber security in OT: Companies that integrate cyber security into their industrial network strategy will need less effort, time and money to defend against attacks. They can invest more resources in developing OT as a platform for innovation and growth.
- Improved collaboration between IT and OT: The required technologies and skills are increasingly overlapping between OT and IT. Teams can therefore no longer work in isolation. Comprehensive organizational processes and uniform technological solutions are required to optimize and protect data and systems.
- AI as a competitive advantage: Innovative companies are using AI in OT to manufacture high-quality products faster. They can also use it to optimize efficiency, use data, support employees, protect themselves against cyberattacks and stay one step ahead of the competition.
Source: Cisco
