Operational Technology (OT) environments are the backbone of critical infrastructure, encompassing industries such as manufacturing, utilities, energy, as well as food and beverage. OT encompasses hardware and software designed to monitor and control physical equipment, processes, and events within organizations. These systems are typically built for longevity, often operating for over a decade.
However, these environments face a significant challenge: patch management. Unlike traditional IT systems, OT systems prioritize continuous operations, making the application of security patches a complex and often delayed process that leaves organizations vulnerable to cyber threats. And that’s if a patch is even available, given OT’s reliance on legacy devices and unsupported operating systems for which patches are no longer made.
With data from TXOne Networks’ 2024 Annual OT/ICS Cybersecurity Report, which surveyed 150 C-level OT cybersecurity decision-makers across the globe, this eBook serves as a guide to navigating the complexities of OT patch management and achieving a resilient cybersecurity framework. Inside, you’ll find practical guidance on:
- Implementing phased and tested patch deployments to avoid business disruption
- Leveraging dedicated testing environments to reduce risk before changes go live
- Applying compensating controls, such as micro-segmentation and real-time monitoring, to defend systems during patch delays
- Utilizing virtual patching and dynamic prioritization models to address critical vulnerabilities when patching isn’t immediately possible.
- Working with OT-specific solutions designed with expert knowledge of that environment
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