Recognizing the Different Security Needs of IT and OT Systems

At Armis, we regularly speak about the benefits of a holistic, multi-faceted approach in Cybersecurity. No example highlights this more than the disparate needs of IT and OT systems. As organizations continue to digitize and increasingly rely on both environments, understanding their distinct security needs is essential for ensuring operational integrity, data protection and production uptime (to name a few) . While IT systems are primarily focused on data processing and management, OT systems monitor and control cyber physical processes. This paper explores the differences between IT and OT security requirements and illustrates how Armis Centrix™ is specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of both environments.

Defining IT and OT Systems

IT Systems encompass technologies used for processing, storing, and managing data. They typically operate in office settings, data centers, or cloud environments. The primary focus of IT is on data confidentiality, integrity, and availability, adhering to the CIA triad.

Conversely, OT systems are used to operate and control physical processes in industrial settings such as factories, power plants, and utilities. The primary focus here is on real-time control and automation, prioritizing safety, uptime, reliability, and operational resilience.

Download to continue reading to learn more about the difference and how Armis uniquely addresses the different needs of IT and OT.