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Bridging IT and OT Security

Explore the complexities of IT vs. OT, their unique roles, integration challenges, and strategies for effective convergence in Industry 4.0.

Achieving IT-Caliber Security in Your OT Environment

If you’ve been relying on air-gapped systems as your primary line of defense in your Operational Technology (OT) environment, this is just one layer in what should be a multi-faceted security strategy. OT is as complex and nuanced as Information Technology (IT) and demands an equally comprehensive approach to security.

From our extensive experience in the field, we’ve developed a philosophy called OT Systems Management (OTSM). OTSM is the foundational key to securing and maintaining reliable control systems. We’ve learned that technology alone is insufficient; achieving proper security and reliability in OT and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) requires the seamless integration of “man and machine.” 

OTSM: A Comprehensive Approach to OT Security

OTSM is the active administration of operational technology systems, which control cyber-physical processes. The key functional elements of OTSM include:

Asset Inventory
  • Hardware Identification: Know every piece of hardware, from sensors to controllers, that plays a role in your operations.
  • Software Inventory: Maintain an up-to-date list of all software elements, complete with versions.
Vulnerability Assessment
  • Scanning and Monitoring: Proactively identify potential vulnerabilities in both software and hardware.
  • Risk Assessment: Understand the real-world implications and risks associated with each vulnerability.
Configuration Management
  • Baseline Settings: Set and uphold standardized configurations for all OT devices.
  • Change Management: Implement changes without compromising safety or efficiency, thanks to a documented procedure.
Patch Management
  • Patch Evaluation: Separate essential updates from the optional, keeping your systems secure and up-to-date.
  • Patch Testing and Deployment: Roll out patches methodically to minimize any operational hiccups.
Security Operations
  • Firewall Rules and Segmentation: Keep your OT network clean by only allowing necessary communications.
  • Intrusion Detection Systems: Vigilant monitoring to spot any unauthorized activities immediately.
Compliance Management
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meet or exceed all industry-specific guidelines and regulations.
  • Audit Trails: Create a secure and transparent record of all system activities for audit success.
Performance Monitoring
  • System Health Checks: Stay ahead with regular checks on the operational status of all systems and devices.
  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Track metrics that matter for real-time insights into system performance.
Incident Response
  • Preparedness: Arm yourself with an OT-specific incident response plan.
  • Investigation and Recovery: Swift and structured procedures to investigate and recover from any incidents.
Continuous Improvement
  • Feedback Loops: Evolve your OTSM strategy based on data-driven insights.
  • Technology Updates: Keep abreast of emerging technologies that can further safeguard your OT environment.
Staff Training and Development
  • Technical Skills: Invest in training programs to keep your team updated and ready.
  • Best Practices: Continual training to adapt to new threats and technologies.

Five Transformative Benefits of Implementing OTSM

Explore the transformative advantages of implementing a strong OTSM strategy. From heightened security to streamlined operations, here’s what you can expect:

  • Deep Network Insights: Gain thorough insight into all hardware and software in the network for rapid identification of vulnerabilities.
  • Fortified Systems: Ensure systems are updated and configured to minimize the risks of cyber-attacks and reliability issues.
  • Operational Efficiency: Benefit from automated updates on key operational tasks for a more efficient operational landscape.
  • Unified Reporting: Experience consistent reporting and monitoring across IT and OT for effortless progress documentation.
  • Advanced Security Controls: Implement advanced security controls with full visibility and access to underlying endpoints and network data.

Watch Now: OT Systems Management for Proactive Cybersecurity

Enhance your industrial security strategy, incorporating OT systems management, in our upcoming webinar as we explore data consolidation, vulnerability management, compliance, and streamlined local action automation.

Best Practices From a Decade of OTSM Support

With over a decade of specialization in Operational Technology Systems Management (OTSM), Verve has been the trusted partner for numerous industrial organizations. Our years of hands-on experience have furnished us with vital insights that can help accelerate your OTSM journey:

Align Leadership on Priorities

The Importance of Unification

In the realm of OTSM, disjointed objectives can be disastrous. Our experience shows that the most successful programs have a robust alignment between the operational teams, security divisions, and systems management groups.

The Verve Approach

We help you facilitate strategic alignment sessions, often involving C-level stakeholders, to set clear objectives, unify priorities, and develop a shared roadmap. A high level of alignment ensures a smoother transition, more efficient operations, and a greater return on investment.

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Centralize Systems into an Enterprise OTSM Platform

Why Centralization Matters

Having multiple platforms for managing risks only multiplies the risks themselves. Centralization in an enterprise OTSM platform is essential for coherent and effective risk management.

Verve’s Solution: The Verve Security Center

We offer the Verve Security Center as a centralized enterprise platform for your OTSM needs. It allows you to evaluate risks at a global level while also providing localized control for immediate, site-specific remediation. Automated tasks ensure you are always a step ahead of any security vulnerabilities.

Develop the Right Talent – Both Internal and External

The Need for Multi-Disciplinary Expertise

In addition to OT expertise, OTSM demands an understanding of Information Technology (IT). The most resilient organizations are those that balance internal and external talent pools for a comprehensive multi-disciplinary approach.

How Verve Helps

At Verve, we help you strike this delicate balance by offering tailored support that complements your internal resources. Whether you need specialist expertise for a specific challenge or broad-based support for general operations, our services are flexible enough to adapt to your needs.

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Turn Benefits Into Reality with Verve

Implementing an effective OTSM strategy involves more than just new technology—it’s about reshaping your organizational culture and mastering the fine art of balancing OT and IT. That’s where Verve comes into play. As a partner deeply attuned to the nuances of Operational Technology, we’re uniquely equipped to fast-track your OTSM success. With Verve by your side, you gain a software solution, a wealth of experience, and innovative strategies designed for OTSM excellence.

25 Years of Proven Expertise

We’ve been helping clients across diverse industries for a quarter-century, consistently doubling their cybersecurity maturity and delivering tangible outcomes. We don’t just promise results; we have a history of delivering them.

Innovative OTSM Solutions

Our Verve Security Center is designed to be vendor-agnostic, giving you the flexibility to integrate various components of your OT environment. This allows us to bring all the aforementioned benefits into one cohesive, automated management platform.

The Power of Partnership

We pride ourselves on not being just another vendor, but a true partner. Our collaboration goes beyond product implementation; we work with your internal teams to scale and adapt, ensuring your long-term success in OTSM.

Ready to Elevate Your OT Security and Efficiency

Learn why Verve is your ideal partner in mastering OT Systems Management and how we uniquely safeguard your systems, optimize performance, and set you up for long-term success.