(419b) Keynote Talk - Cybersecurity for Operational Technology and Smart Manufacturing Systems

Many manufacturers and system operators use operational technology (OT) and industrial control system (ICS) to automate their operations. These systems are often operated in demanding environments and have unique performance, reliability, and safety requirements. Traditionally, these systems are air-gapped but an increasing number of operators are connecting their systems to the network to address business needs and boost productivity. Additionally, emerging technologies like IoT/IIoT and cloud computing are being integrated with these environments to support digital transformation and process optimization.

As more systems are interconnected, it is critical for these organizations to secure these systems. Typical IT security architectures like defense-in-depth and zero trust may require additional measures and considerations to work effectively in the OT and ICS environments. Unfortunately, many organizations are still having difficulty to fully implement cybersecurity measures to secure their infrastructures and OT systems.

NIST is developing standards and guidelines to assist organizations to address their cybersecurity needs. Publications like the NIST SP 800-82 provides guidance for OT systems and to demonstrate how to implement cybersecurity measures in the OT and ICS environments while addressing the performance and safety requirements of these systems.