Security Risks of Connecting OT and IT Systems

• Communication between OT and IT systems is often unencrypted
• Connection of OT network with IT network exposes the former to cyber risks
• An attack or dysfunction of OT systems can disrupt industrial manufacturing and control systems
• Security protocols and technologies of OT and IT systems are not entirely compatible

The aforementioned blind spots have paved the way for data diodes that can isolate IT and OT networks without causing delays in communication.

Role of Data Diodes in Eliminating Security Threats

• Businesses need to protect and isolate their OT networks from external and unauthorised entities
• However, at the same time, these businesses are also required to provide operational data to their business networks
• A data diode helps in transferring data to the external operational/business networks without exposing the internal OT networks to risks of intrusion
• IT networks also involve security protocols and assets that need to be protected from breach or ransomware. A data diode helps in isolating OT and IT networks

Sectors that Store Critical Operational Technology Data

• Oil and Gas
• Nuclear Facilities
• Power Plants
• Utilities
• Other Critical Infrastructure