IT vs OT Security: Key Differences In Cybersecurity
Historically, information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) environments were designed to operate independently, be managed separately by different teams with different objectives, and have absolutely no connectivity between one another. These conditions, however, have changed dramatically over the past decade — largely due to the acceleration of digital transformation. Organizations in all sectors have since become increasingly reliant on newer types of cyber-physical systems and other technologies that both require and continue to expand connectivity between IT and OT. As a result, these previously disparate environments are converging, giving rise to undeniable business benefits ranging from greater efficiency and sustainability to innovation. Unfortunately, this convergence is also fueling new risks and challenges — particularly when it comes to IT and OT cybersecurity.
What is the Difference Between IT and OT?
The main objective of any IT environment is to manage and process data and information and the various systems through which it flows. Examples of IT systems include servers, computers, software applications, databases, and other resources used for communication, data and information storage, and/or analysis. The major responsibility of IT systems is to manage the data and information used to support business operations.
OT, on the other hand, is responsible for managing and controlling physical devices which are typically involved in the production or delivery of goods and services. Examples of OT systems include industrial control systems (ICS), sensors, robotics, and more that are used in critical infrastructure industries. The major responsibility of OT systems is to manage the control and automation of physical processes and the devices that are critical to business operations. To break it down in the simplest terms, IT is focused on data and communication while OT is concentrated on behaviors and outcomes.
What is IT/OT Convergence?
The integration of IT and OT systems have created more connectivity between these two previously disparate environments, leading to improved efficiency, increased visibility and control over operations, and better decision-making capabilities for an organization. A prime example of IT/OT convergence are industrial internet of things (IIoT) devices, which involves the connection of physical devices, sensors, and machines to IT networks, often via the cloud. These devices enable data collection, remote monitoring, and analysis of performance — allowing critical infrastructure organizations to improve automation, predict maintenance, and make real-time decisions.
This form of IT/OT convergence has allowed organizations to greatly accelerate their digital transformation initiatives. By converging IT and OT systems, organizations can further automate their processes to reduce human error, increase productivity, and streamline their operations. They can also gain deeper insights into their operations and make data-driven decisions with enhanced visibility into data. As a critical enabler of digital transformation, IT/OT convergence helps align operational processes with digital capabilities, thereby changing the ways businesses deliver value. Although converged IT/OT brings the promise of cost savings and resource efficiencies, this rise in interconnectivity has also brought its share of challenges. As more IT devices and systems become interconnected with OT environments, and the extended internet of things (XIoT) continues to expand, more organizations will see implications associated.