The growing intersection of operational technology (OT) and information technology
(IT), along with the cybersecurity risks linked to both, is becoming an increasingly
important business challenge for organisations of all sizes and industries.
As digital transformation continues to expand into OT environments, convergence with
IT systems has become unavoidable. While this convergence creates exciting
opportunities, such as new revenue streams and improved operational outcomes, it also
introduces new cybersecurity risks and complexities that many organisations are still
unprepared to address.
Why OT/IT Convergence Creates New Challenges
Several overlapping factors are driving OT and IT environments closer together,
creating a complex landscape that organisations must navigate.
Bridging the Gap Between People and Processes
OT and IT teams have traditionally operated in separate worlds. They often differ in
terms of technology, operational processes, regulations, and workplace culture,
resulting in different priorities and approaches.
Legacy Systems and Modern Integration Challenges
The age and nature of many OT systems mean that legacy machinery and equipment
are often incompatible with modern IT software. This lack of compatibility can increase
exposure to cybersecurity vulnerabilities and make integration more difficult.
Balancing Operational and Security Priorities
Historically, OT environments have focused on system uptime, operational continuity,
and employee safety rather than cybersecurity. In contrast, cybersecurity has long been
a core principle within IT environments. These differing priorities can create gaps when
the two worlds converge.
The Business Impact of OT/IT Cybersecurity Risks
OT/IT cybersecurity is far more than a technical concern—it is a strategic business
issue that should be considered from the earliest stages of system design and
implementation.
Failing to address cybersecurity risks early can lead to significant operational, financial,
and reputational consequences. The cost of remediation often far exceeds the effort
required to build security into systems from the beginning.
This is particularly important for critical infrastructure environments such as water
treatment facilities, power grids, air traffic control systems, communications networks,
and defence command-and-control systems. These sectors remain attractive targets for
cybercriminals and nation-state actors. Organisations should always assume that
adversaries will actively seek out weaknesses within OT/IT environments.
Key Areas to Address During OT/IT Convergence
When managing OT/IT convergence and cybersecurity, business leaders and
decision-makers should consider several critical areas.
Developing a Cybersecurity-First Mindset
Organisations need a balanced approach that combines cybersecurity best practices
with the growing number of devices, systems, and data sources created by OT/IT
convergence.
Emerging Technologies: Opportunity and Risk
Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and cloud computing
present significant opportunities for innovation and efficiency. However, they also
introduce new cybersecurity risks that must be considered. Modern systems should be
designed with future threats in mind, not just current ones.
Navigating Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Regulations such as the NIS Directive and the updated NIS2 Directive outline the
responsibility of organisations to take reasonable measures to strengthen their
cybersecurity posture. As more OT systems become digitally connected and classified
as critical infrastructure, compliance requirements continue to grow in importance.
Eliminating Barriers Between OT and IT Teams
One of the biggest barriers to effective cybersecurity is the cultural divide between OT
and IT teams. Organisations must encourage collaboration, improve communication,
and align objectives to reduce complexity and strengthen security across the business.
Managing the Growth of Cloud, Data, and Connected Devices
As digital OT environments expand, cyberattacks can spread rapidly across
interconnected networks. Compromised systems can move threats laterally through
cloud environments, connected devices, and shared data ecosystems. With the rapid
increase in connected assets, managing this risk has become more important than ever.
Preparing OT/IT Environments for the Future
Business stakeholders increasingly expect OT systems to support greater agility,
efficiency, and digital innovation. Boards that prioritise OT/IT cybersecurity today are
recognising the long-term business value of secure digital transformation and
operational resilience.
Taking the Next Step Toward Stronger OT/IT Security
To help organisations better understand and prepare for cybersecurity challenges at the
intersection of OT and IT, industry experts have shared valuable insights and
recommendations in a new guide: Executive Edge: Peer Insights – Complexity at the
Intersection of IT and OT.
This guide is designed to be specifically for the C-suite executives and the senior
decision-makers. It explores practical strategies for reducing the complexity,
strengthening security, and pro-actively managing the emerging threats across
converged IT/OT environments.
Download the Peer Insights Guide
Discover how leading organisations are streamlining security, improving collaboration
between OT and IT teams, and building more resilient digital environments. Download
the Peer Insights guide today to explore expert insights, practical strategies, and proven
approaches for managing OT/IT convergence and cybersecurity risks with confidence.
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