Is Your Security Ready for the Convergence of Networks?

Every Network Is Now an OT Network. Can Your Security Keep Up?

The Convergence of OT and IT Networks

In today’s interconnected world, every network is now an Operational Technology (OT) network. This transformation is driven by the convergence of OT and Information Technology (IT) networks. Previously isolated OT networks, such as those in manufacturing, processing, distribution, and inventory management, are now being integrated into larger IT networks. This integration allows for better controls, improved responsiveness, broad interconnectivity for communication, and seamless resource expansion and redistribution.

However, this convergence also introduces new security risks. As OT networks become part of larger IT networks, the complexity of securing these hybrid environments increases significantly. Additionally, the integration of smart, energy-efficient physical resources in modern enterprise IT networks further adds to the security challenges.

The Challenges of Securing Hybrid Network Environments

Securing today’s expanding hybrid networks requires a holistic approach that goes beyond adding point security solutions. Many organizations have tried to address this challenge by adding more security tools, but this only leads to increased complexity and decreased security.

The use of numerous management consoles, isolated security tools, and inconsistent policies reduces visibility and control, making it difficult to detect and respond to threats comprehensively. Legacy security solutions and strategies also create bottlenecks and gaps in protection, particularly when combined with mobile workers, cloud-based services, edge computing, and essential business applications like streaming video.

Five Considerations for Securing Hybrid Networks

To effectively secure expanding hybrid networks, organizations should consider the following:

1. Start with a universal, integrated security platform

Building a security architecture around platforms that can operate in any environment and form factor is crucial. This approach ensures the identification and addressal of security weaknesses, detection of brewing and active events, and enables a coordinated response across every segment of the network. Hybrid mesh firewalls are an example of critical cross-network interoperability.

2. Use security tools designed to operate as a single system

A centralized, single-pane-of-glass management system, consistent policy deployment and enforcement, sharing of real-time threat intelligence, and the ability to operate in any cloud environment are essential features of a modern network security system. This includes solutions specifically designed for OT environments, ruggedized systems, OT-specific modules, and deep interoperability with OT systems.

3. Converge network and security

Traditionally, networking and security have been treated as separate functions, but it’s critical to build infrastructure and leverage solutions that bring these two elements together. Networking equipment that incorporates security functionality into their operations, or is built on a security platform, ensures that IoT and OT devices connect to the network with the appropriate security context. Secure SD-WAN is an example of converging security and networking functions.

4. Implement zero trust everywhere

Legacy network environments often rely on an implicit trust model, automatically trusting traffic that has passed through a demarcation point. This approach poses significant risks, especially with highly mobile users, devices, and widely deployed applications. Implementing zero trust means authenticating every user, device, and application per session, granting access only to the necessary resources, and monitoring all activities for deviations from sanctioned behavior. Universal zero trust network access extends these principles to remote and on-premises users and devices.

5. Use AI, but understand it

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a buzzword in the security and networking industry. It can potentially detect complex threats, fix misconfigurations, automate manual tasks, and reduce response time. However, there is a lack of consistency in how vendors define and implement AI in their products. Before investing in AI-powered security solutions, it’s crucial to understand its interoperability, threat feeds, and compatibility with OT systems and environments.

Editorial: The Urgency of Redesigning Security Systems

As networks become increasingly complex and interconnected, the urgency to redesign security systems becomes paramount. The convergence of IT and OT networks has elevated the stakes, making it crucial for organizations to prioritize security.

Taking a piecemeal approach to security, adding more point solutions without considering the bigger picture, only exacerbates the problems. Organizations need to adopt a holistic approach, integrating security into every aspect of their network infrastructure.

Conclusion: The Future of Network Security

Securing today’s expanding hybrid networks requires a fundamental shift in mindset. Organizations must embrace a universal, integrated security platform, consolidate their security tools into a single system, converge networking and security, implement zero trust everywhere, and leverage AI responsibly.

By adopting these measures, organizations can effectively navigate the complexities of OT and IT convergence, protect their digital and physical environments, and stay one step ahead of rapid cyberattacks.

The future of network security lies in a comprehensive, proactive approach that prioritizes visibility, control, and adaptability. Only then can organizations truly ensure the resilience of their networks in an increasingly interconnected world.