The Overlooked Threat: Why Operational Technology Demands Your Attention

As more businesses embrace digital transformation, there’s one critical area often left behind: Operational Technology (OT). From factories to utilities to energy producers, OT systems run our physical infrastructure — but they’re increasingly at risk.

What Is Operational Technology (OT) and Why Is It Different?

Operational Technology (OT) refers to the hardware and software that monitor and control devices, processes, and infrastructure. Examples include systems such as SCADA platforms (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), industrial networks, and control panels used to manage real-time operations. These systems often lack built-in security features. Many still run on outdated firmware or were designed before cybersecurity was a concern. Worse, they’re increasingly being connected to IT systems and the internet, expanding their attack surface.

What's at Stake?

When OT systems are compromised, the consequences can be devastating:

• Production shutdowns

• Damage to costly equipment

• Delays in service or product delivery

• Safety hazards for employees or the public

Recent cyberattacks have shown just how vulnerable critical infrastructure can be, especially when IT and OT environments overlap.

GDS’s Approach to OT Security

Operational Technology systems are increasingly being connected to IT systems and the internet, expanding their attack surface.

At GDS, we take a layered and pragmatic approach to OT cybersecurity:

• Segmentation: Isolating OT from IT networks to reduce lateral movement during a breach

• Monitoring: Using tools designed for industrial systems to detect suspicious protocol activity and increase visibility

• Access Control: Applying strict policies and multi-factor authentication for administrators and vendors

• Resilience: Ensuring backups for critical OT devices and recovery plans that align with NIST and CISA guidelines

This comprehensive strategy helps protect both day-to-day operations and long-term business continuity.

Don’t Let OT Be Your Weakest Link

Cybersecurity is no longer just about protecting email servers and websites. Your pumps, control rooms, and meters need the same level of attention.

If it’s connected, it’s a target.

GDS has the expertise, tools, and training to help you build a robust OT security strategy that keeps operations running and risks minimized.

Let’s talk about how to secure your entire technology footprint; from IT to OT. Contact GDS today.

Benefits of Managed IT Services from Global Data Systems

• Strategic Managed IT: We help you solve your technology related business problems.
• Connectivity: We get you reliable, secure connectivity anywhere in the western hemisphere in 48 hours.
• Support: When you need help simply call our 24x7x365 support number.
• Billing: Instead of managing hundreds of vendors - get one, easy to read bill from GDS.

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