Daniel Mataró

In the era of data and communication, the challenge for companies is to achieve total connectivity of their production and business systems and processes in order to improve their competitiveness. In industry this is a particular case due to the existence of communication networks with operational technologies (OT) formed by sensors, automatons, HMI systems, SCADA and cyber-physical equipment with different protocols that have evolved alongside common enterprise networks (IT). This is the challenge of IT/OT convergence, an integration that aims to connect both worlds to achieve total end-to-end process connectivity. This integration seeks to combine the control of industrial operations with the analysis, automation and management capabilities of the IT environment, optimizing production processes and ensuring high availability. However, the merging of these two worlds generates new key challenges in critical areas. Implementing industrial solutions for data collection and processing improves efficiency and productivity in industrial environments. Key challenges of IT/OT convergence Comprehensive cyber security: OT systems, originally designed to operate in isolation, are now connected to IT networks, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. Cyber security must encompass both the IT network and industrial devices and systems, ensuring the protection of critical data and operational continuity. Interoperability and data management: OT systems often use different communication protocols and tools than IT. The need to integrate these systems for data management without compromising availability in the operational area is crucial to optimizing processes. Collaboration between teams: IT/OT convergence requires greater cooperation between the two teams. Both must work together to manage the complexities of cyber security, data analytics, and automation. IT/OT convergence is fundamental to the success of Industry 4.0, which is characterized by the digitalization of production processes. Impact of NIS2 regulations In this context of convergence, the European Union's NIS2 directive on network and information systems security reinforces cyber security obligations for critical infrastructures, including energy, transportation, water and health systems, among other industrial sectors. This regulation establishes stricter measures in terms of risk management and security incident notification, with the aim of increasing the resilience of these sectors to cyber threats. It is vital to ensure compliance with NIS 2 by implementing security policies and network architectures that cover the entirety of operations. NIS 2 requires organizations to take greater responsibility for the security of their IT and OT infrastructures. This includes implementing security policies that cover all systems, identifying vulnerabilities, adopting mitigation measures and being able to recover from incidents. ✅ The NIS 2 regulation requires immediate notification of any cyber security breach. This requirement not only helps mitigate the effects of incidents, but also facilitates a rapid and coordinated response in the protection of critical infrastructures, which often include industrial environments. Acting quickly in the face of any threat is essential to ensure security and operational continuity in these highly sensitive environments. Telefónica Tech solutions for secure IT/OT convergence Our team of experts has designed solutions that effectively address the emerging needs of digitization and IT/OT convergence, while helping companies meet NIS 2 regulatory requirements. Our capabilities combine our expertise in industrial automation and security in OT environments with our infrastructure, connectivity solutions and advanced Cyber Security tools suited to the differential security needs of industrial OT systems. A comprehensive analysis of risks and vulnerabilities in networks allows us to identify critical areas and establish customized mitigation strategies. This comprehensive approach allows us to offer complete and scalable solutions to protect the critical systems of manufacturing and industrial companies. Key services Cyber Security Audit and Consulting: We perform a comprehensive analysis of risks and vulnerabilities in networks in order to identify critical areas and establish customized mitigation strategies. Data collection solutions: We implement industrial solutions for data collection and processing that improve efficiency and productivity in industrial environments, integrating layers of security that protect systems against possible cyberattacks. Critical infrastructure cyber security: We ensure compliance with NIS 2 regulations by implementing security policies, integrating GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance) profiles and network architectures that protect all operations and ensure business continuity in the event of any incident. The importance of IT/OT convergence in Industry 4.0 IT/OT convergence is fundamental to the success of Industry 4.0, which is characterized by the digitalization of production processes, the integration of technologies such as industrial IoT and the use of advanced data analytics. This integration not only optimizes operational efficiency through automation and real-time control, but also enables greater flexibility and responsiveness to changes in market demand. Implementing robust cyber security measures in this context is essential to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity in the face of potential cyber threats. IT/OT convergence also facilitates predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and extending the life of equipment. Implementing robust Cyber Security measures in this context is essential to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity in the face of potential cyber threats. A well implemented strategy allows to increase efficiency, productivity and competitiveness, promoting innovation and improving organizational resilience against new cyber threats. Telefónica Tech Connectivity & IoT “Each production company must digitalize itself according to its circumstances, objectives, and needs.” Darío Cesena, Geprom September 17, 2024