{"id":62243,"date":"2025-02-08T18:16:39","date_gmt":"2025-02-08T18:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/?post_type=blog&#038;p=62243"},"modified":"2026-04-13T10:44:57","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T09:44:57","slug":"what-is-operational-technology-explained-simply","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/blog\/what-is-operational-technology-explained-simply\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Operational Technology Explained Simply"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"62243\" class=\"elementor elementor-62243\" data-elementor-post-type=\"blog\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-d77e8b1 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"d77e8b1\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-f9745b9\" data-id=\"f9745b9\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-456726f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"456726f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consisting of a variety of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/blog\/remote-access-device?lai_vid=wAmePMy5JiP2y&amp;lai_sr=40-44&amp;lai_sl=m\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hardware and software<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, these systems monitor and control the physical processes that allow your business to run. Whether it\u2019s programmable logic controllers, industrial control systems, or SCADA systems, operational technology allows you to gather the data to make more detailed, nuanced decisions about your daily operations as well as automate certain processes, vastly enhancing efficiency.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We\u2019ll break down each relevant element, covering control systems, security concerns, how operational control differs and contrasts with information technology and how these systems can integrate with industry 4.0 concepts, aiming to offer a comprehensive view of how integrating operational technology can benefit your business.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Understanding Operational Technology (OT)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Operational Technology refers to systems made from a combination of hardware and software solutions that monitor and control physical devices, processes and infrastructure. It\u2019s used across industries to manage, maintain, and enhance the operational efficiency and safety of their systems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Integration with information technology in your network can lead to huge boosts to efficiency but there are also challenges when it comes to ensuring security. While these problems are not insurmountable, they are significant and worthy of careful consideration before integrating operational technology into your efforts.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Key Components of Operational Technology Systems<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Operational technology is the catch-all term for several specialized systems, each with its own function.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &nbsp; <\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Industrial Control Systems (ICSs) manage complex industrial processes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &nbsp; <\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) automate specific tasks, offering precise control over machinery.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &nbsp; <\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Distributed Control Systems (DCSs) centralize control over processes distributed across a network, making them ideal for larger-scale operations.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &nbsp; <\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems provide<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/blog\/real-time-monitoring-energy-infrastructure\/?lai_vid=wAmePMy5JiP2y&amp;lai_sr=40-44&amp;lai_sl=m\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">real-time monitoring<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and control of machinery and systems, even when geographically spread out..<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Industrial Control Systems (ICS)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Perhaps the most obvious use for these systems is Industrial Control Systems (ICSs). These networks of devices, systems, and controls work in tandem to aid in the management of complex processes. They also allow detailed real-time data to be fed to operators, allowing them to make better-informed decisions, making maintaining peak operational performance that bit easier.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These networks play a vital role in monitoring, controlling, and managing industrial processes such as power generation and distribution, water treatment, and transport systems. Similar systems can be utilized to enhance operational efficiency and safety across a wide range of manufacturing and other industrial sectors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Previously, most of these systems would be located on-site and isolated from the internet but modern systems can be far more widely distributed. These combine on-machine IoT devices and remote access control into a single unified network, centralizing control over potentially geographically distant systems. This allows greater control over the processes in question on a much larger scale than previously possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Security Considerations<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, due to being internet-connected and due to the critical nature of these control systems, they have become a prime target for cyber-attacks, especially in key industries like water treatment and energy. This means robust security measures and continuous monitoring for potential threats are necessary to avoid the risk of catastrophic impacts from these attacks on key infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-63103\" src=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-plant-floor.jpg\" alt=\"manufacturing plant floor\" width=\"1724\" height=\"1020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-plant-floor.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-plant-floor-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-plant-floor-1024x606.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-plant-floor-768x454.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-plant-floor-1536x909.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1724px) 100vw, 1724px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Distributed Control Systems (DCS)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Distributed Control Systems (DCSs) are a specialized version of Industrial Control Systems (ICSs). These differ from centralized control systems in that they consist of a whole network of controllers and sensors spread out across the process in question.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This decentralized approach allows a more flexible, and often more efficient, overview and control of complex industrial operations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These systems are often used in industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, or power generation, where precision and control across a range of simultaneous processes is key. The real-time data provided by these systems allows operators to make quick adjustments and respond to changing conditions, maintaining operational performance and avoiding bottlenecks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Considerations<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While Distributed Control systems offer advantages in overall control and flexibility for complicated processes, they require careful consideration on both reliability and security grounds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maladjustment of sensors or poorly interpreted data can destroy any efficiency benefits. To this end, regular maintenance of both hardware and software is required to ensure that the systems function accurately.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like other networked control systems, there is a risk of security breaches. Each controller and sensor is a potential entry point and could compromise the entire network, shutting down production or worse. As with any networked control device, mitigating these risks is a primary concern.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Operational Technology vs Information Technology<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At their heart, Operational Technology systems are concerned with the control, monitoring, safety, and efficiency of physical processes. This contrasts with Information Technology which deals with data management and communication systems. While some aspects of operational technology systems may cross over into data management (for example, monitoring output), this is not the primary focus.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These differences are further highlighted when we consider the priorities of each type of system. While IT is largely concerned with elements such as data confidentiality and integrity and how easy it is to access, OT places priority on operational safety and maximizing the uptime of your processes as downtime can compromise both efficiency and safety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In terms of lifecycle, operation technology systems can potentially last decades, relying on established (if occasionally outdated) technologies. IT on the other hand generally needs regular updates or even replacements to incorporate new advances in the field.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to security concerns, Information Technology is mostly at risk from data breaches compromising your business&#8217;s ability to function. Operational technology\u2019s challenges however sit more on the side of the physical safety of your facilities as these systems are often employed to aid in hazardous industrial processes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the case of IT, many update processes are automated, and support from service suppliers and in-house departments is easy to come by. Operational technology can present more of a challenge as it often relies on legacy equipment, meaning that teams tasked with ensuring it stays reliable and safe will require specialist training on your particular devices.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Integration Challenges<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where the two fields collide, there is scope for significant integration between operational and information technologies. This could allow for real-time reporting and data collection or a host of other integrated processes, vastly improving the usefulness of both systems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While many of the physical devices harnessed in OT systems may last for decades, this can present problems when integrating it with the faster-developing field of IT. There is no guarantee that modern systems will support older hardware and, even if they do, you may require bespoke solutions to get the most out of this integration, significantly adding to the complexity and cost of the system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Likewise, integrating information and operational technologies comes with significant security challenges. While IT problems generally focus on keeping digital assets secure, operational technology tends to focus on physical safety. Exposing both means having robust cybersecurity processes in place to mitigate these risks as much as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Examples of Operational Technology Systems<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-63108\" src=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/operational-technology-car-manufacturing.jpg\" alt=\"operational technology in car manufacturing\" width=\"1724\" height=\"1020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/operational-technology-car-manufacturing.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/operational-technology-car-manufacturing-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/operational-technology-car-manufacturing-1024x606.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/operational-technology-car-manufacturing-768x454.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/operational-technology-car-manufacturing-1536x909.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1724px) 100vw, 1724px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These systems form a critical part of the day-to-day operations in many industries, providing the framework for automation, enhancing production capabilities, and maintaining vital infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Examples of these technologies include:<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>SCADAs<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems allow the real-time gathering of data and the control of geographically dispersed assets, allowing businesses to centralize control and monitoring.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are employed to great effect in sectors such as oil and gas production. Here they offer vital oversight of operations, supplying real-time monitoring of every aspect of production.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Smart Grids<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart grids allow the automation of power distribution, improving efficiency and reliability. This is particularly useful in integrating renewable or other supplementary sources into a grid when they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Traffic Management Systems.<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traffic management systems are a useful tool for city planners who can make great use of these technologies to aid in the flow of traffic. By allowing the easy monitoring of congestion and allowing the automation of signals, traffic can be more easily managed.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Industrial Robots<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By automating repetitive tasks on an assembly line or in any number of other industrial tasks, manufacturers can benefit from increased precision, safety, productivity, and quality. From tightening bolts, through welding and painting, industrial robots offer a speedy solution to many problems and endless repeatability.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many of these systems can be operated remotely through tools such as<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/connect\/?lai_vid=wAmePMy5JiP2y&amp;lai_sr=40-44&amp;lai_sl=m\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">RealVNC Connect<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, drastically reducing the need for site visits and in-person interventions. A perfect example comes from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/connect\/customers\/case-study-boston-valley-terra-cotta?lai_vid=wAmePMy5JiP2y&amp;lai_sr=40-44&amp;lai_sl=m\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boston Valley Terra Cotta<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, who needed a solution to allow their team to monitor their kilns and troubleshoot problems in real-time. By using RealVNC Connect, these issues can now largely be fixed remotely, saving on travel time and vastly reducing downtime, offering significant savings.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>The Role of Operational Technology in Manufacturing<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-63113\" src=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/robot-arm-operational-technology-manufacturing.jpg\" alt=\"robot arm operational technology manufacturing\" width=\"1724\" height=\"1020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/robot-arm-operational-technology-manufacturing.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/robot-arm-operational-technology-manufacturing-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/robot-arm-operational-technology-manufacturing-1024x606.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/robot-arm-operational-technology-manufacturing-768x454.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/robot-arm-operational-technology-manufacturing-1536x909.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1724px) 100vw, 1724px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Automating complex industrial processes allows companies to optimize and monitor everything from resource utilization to quality control, minimizing the risk of downtime and ensuring that production lines run as smoothly as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A prime example would be the introduction of industrial robots in the car manufacturing industry. Here, the laborious process of building can be sped up without sacrificing quality and resources can be maximized through vastly reducing the risk of user error on the factory floor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>IT Integration<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blending advanced data-management systems with production means greater nuance in performance metrics and operational data, allowing decision-makers a better picture and enhancing the agility of the process as a whole. Seamless integration between data systems and the physical machinery on the shop floor allows vastly improved coordination and responsiveness. Tools like RealVNC connect can act as a bridge between these systems, for example connecting the IT and OT elements of smart grids in energy production to minimize downtime.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&#8217;s unlikely that every part of a process will take place in a single environment, so products that can facilitate communication between Linux, Windows, and Raspberry Pi-based systems are necessary to ensure that the advantages can be realized with minimal interference between physical machinery and digital assets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another major advantage of blending OT and IT comes from the chance to embed greater cybersecurity into your operational assets. By following IT best practices, the threat of cyber-attacks on critical machines can be greatly lessened.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, this integrated approach means that your operational technology can be updated to include practices like predictive maintenance. By harnessing data analytics, it\u2019s possible to anticipate failures before they happen and schedule maintenance when most convenient. This reduces unplanned downtime, increases the lifespan of machinery and ensures that productivity remains high.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Industry 4.0, also sometimes referred to as the \u2018fourth industrial revolution\u2019, is the term used to encompass the myriad changes in manufacturing technology that are currently shaping the industrial landscape. The integration of automation and data exchange lies squarely at the heart of these shifts where the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) allows connected devices and sensors on machinery to collect data and automatically control processes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This allows real-time data gathering which leads to more efficient and precise control, allowing operators to make the choices that best fit the nuance of the situation. This, in turn, leads to improved product quality, greater production levels and reduced operational costs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As combined Operational and Information technology solutions become the norm, new options open up for manufacturers and other industrial sectors all the time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Security Concerns<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, these revolutionary new practices are not without their drawbacks. The integration of IT and OT networks can create new vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. It is therefore essential that the best practices of the IT world are adopted, minimizing the risk to both sensitive data and industrial machinery from bad actors and ensuring the safe and reliable operation of key infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Operational Technology Security and Challenges<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-63118\" src=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-secure-remote-access-laptop-and-lock.jpg\" alt=\"manufacturing secure remote access laptop and lock\" width=\"1724\" height=\"1020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-secure-remote-access-laptop-and-lock.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-secure-remote-access-laptop-and-lock-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-secure-remote-access-laptop-and-lock-1024x606.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-secure-remote-access-laptop-and-lock-768x454.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/manufacturing-secure-remote-access-laptop-and-lock-1536x909.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1724px) 100vw, 1724px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breaches in security can lead to impacts that range from inconvenient downtime to outright disasters, risking the physical safety of your team, infrastructure and the general public.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common challenges include managing older systems which may rely on outdated technologies and issues that arise from merging OT and IT systems. In the case of systems that require continuous operation, finding the opportunity to apply patches and updates promptly can prove problematic and increase the time when you are potentially exposed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With that in mind, there are certain steps that any industrial setting should take when considering how best to deploy operational technology and integrate it with their IT systems,<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Risk Assessment<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This should encompass any potential vulnerabilities and the worst-case scenario should they come under attack.&nbsp; This will allow you to prioritize your security efforts in the most effective places.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Network Segmentation<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Introducing segmentation reduces the \u2018attack surface\u2019 and is particularly useful for protecting key systems by isolating them from the network. Tools such as RealVNC Connect offer segmentation and firewall configurations which can be particularly helpful in managing legacy machinery.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Defence-in-Depth<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A layered approach to cybersecurity vastly decreases the likelihood of any given attack penetrating and causing damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Secure Legacy Systems<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensure that all systems are patched and updated to the latest versions. It\u2019s also worth employing compensating controls such as regular password changes, multi-factor authentication (MFA), device identification through RSA keys, and intrusion detection systems can all help mitigate risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Training<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Operational Technology-specific security training for personnel who will be operating these systems, as well as your IT department, will enhance their awareness of potential threats as well as offer them vital skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Products such as RealVNC Connect can also aid in your operational technology\u2019s security through tools like end-to-end encryption (AES-256) and TLS protocols to secure remote sessions like SCADAs or PLCs. Compliance with NIST CSF<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/pr.ac\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PR.AC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-3 guidelines for access control and features such as automated session logging and audit trials mean you can rest assured that your systems are as safe as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Best Practices for OT Implementation<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Harnessing Operational technology systems requires meticulous planning to ensure both the security and reliability of key infrastructure. Here are some of the things to consider when implementing your own systems:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b> <\/b> <b>Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment: <\/b>The first step towards implementation is undertaking a comprehensive risk assessment. This should cover any potential security vulnerabilities and the risks that may arise. This allows you to direct security efforts most efficiently.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><b> <\/b> <b>Implement a Defense-in-Depth Approach: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Multiple layers of security controls, including things like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and robust access controls dramatically reduce the risk from attack.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Use Secure Communication Protocols:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ensure that any data transmitted between OT devices and systems is protected by using secure communication protocols, such as<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/blog\/all-you-need-to-know-about-remote-desktop-encryption\/?lai_vid=wAmePMy5JiP2y&amp;lai_sr=40-44&amp;lai_sl=m\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">encryption<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and secure authentication.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Implement Regular Software Updates and Patches:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Regularly update and patch OT systems to protect against known vulnerabilities wherever possible. Keeping software up-to-date is vital for maintaining security.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Provide Training and Awareness:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> There\u2019s no substitute for a team who knows their business. Training personnel on security best practices and the importance of OT security helps to develop a security-conscious culture.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Monitor and Analyze OT Network Traffic:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Continuously monitoring and analyzing network traffic helps to detect and respond to potential security threats. Advanced monitoring tools and techniques can help to identify anomalies and prevent cyberattacks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Implement Incident Response Planning:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When disaster does strike, having a detailed indecent response plan can aid in the quick resumption of service, cutting downtime and mitigating the impact of cyberattacks.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><b>Final Words<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In answering the question \u201cWhat is operational technology?\u201d We hope we have offered an appreciation of its critical place in the modern industrial landscape. While harnessing the latest developments in the field certainly presents its challenges, not least in keeping systems secure and managing the interface between old and new technologies, the benefits in terms of enhanced efficiency for not only manufacturing but all kinds of industrial endeavors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While security remains a pivotal concern, with the right strategies and tools like RealVNC Control, embracing the intersection of OT and IT can bring strengthened industrial operations to almost any business.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>FAQs<\/b><\/h3>\n<h3><b>What is operational technology?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Operational technology is hardware and software used to monitor and control equipment and processes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What are examples of operational technology?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Examples include SCADA systems for automation, smart grids in utilities, traffic management systems, or industrial robots in manufacturing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What is operational technology cyber security?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The process of protecting OT systems from cyber threats, ensuring safety and reliability.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What&#8217;s the difference between IT and OT?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">OT focuses on controlling physical systems and processes, prioritizing safety and uptime, while IT manages data and communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What is technology operations?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Technology operations are the processes and systems involved in managing and maintaining hardware and software that control industrial operations and physical infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Consisting of a variety of hardware and software, these systems monitor and control the physical processes that allow your business to run. Whether it\u2019s programmable logic controllers, industrial control systems, or SCADA systems, operational technology allows you to gather the data to make more detailed, nuanced decisions about your daily operations as well as automate &#8230; <a title=\"What Is Operational Technology Explained Simply\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.realvnc.com\/en\/blog\/what-is-operational-technology-explained-simply\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about What Is Operational Technology Explained Simply\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":31,"featured_media":63096,"template":"","blog_category":[281,371],"class_list":["post-62243","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog_category-remote-access","blog_category-remote-access-basics"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Is Operational Technology? 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