In today’s interconnected world, the lines between Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) are increasingly blurred, but when it comes to cybersecurity, the differences matter.

Shared Foundations, Different Purposes
At their core, both OT and IT systems rely on the same networking principles. Ethernet cables, switches, and routers form the backbone of connectivity in both domains. The distinction lies in what they connect: IT systems link up printers, servers, and office devices, while OT systems are the lifeline of industrial environments, connecting PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
Westermo has been at the forefront of industrial data communications for 50 years. Our switches are engineered to withstand the harshest conditions, yet they function just like conventional IT devices when it comes to data transfer. This means that, like all networked devices, Westermo equipment must be protected against cyber threats.

Why OT Disruption Hits Harder
While IT disruptions might mean a printer outage or a slow server, OT disruptions have far-reaching consequences. Think of sectors like energy, water or transportation where uptime isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity.
A cyber incident in an OT environment could lead to prolonged power outages or compromised supplies. These aren’t just operational mishaps, they can be financially devastating or even life-threatening. Cybersecurity in OT isn’t just about protection, it’s about resilience.

Designing for Defense
Cybersecurity is not a one time thing, and mitigating risk starts with smart design. One of the simplest yet most effective steps is replacing default passwords with secure, unique credentials. This basic measure limits access and forms the first line of defense. Building systems with cybersecurity in mind from the start is key, along with regular maintenance health checks throughout the operating lifetime. 
Mitigating risk starts with smart design. One of the simplest yet most effective steps is replacing default passwords with secure, unique credentials. This basic measure limits access and forms the first line of defense. Westermo’s WeConfig tool helps identify active services on devices and recommends which should be disabled, especially across different VLANs.

Protocols: A Common Language
Despite their differences, OT and IT systems often speak the same language. Protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, and SSH are used across both domains. But not all protocols are created equal. HTTP, for example, transmits data in plain text, making it vulnerable to interception. Switching to HTTPS is a critical step in securing communications. Using SSH rather than telnet is another example of securing your network. 

As industries continue to digitize and converge IT and OT systems, understanding their differences, and how they overlap, is essential for building resilient infrastructure. At Westermo, we believe that robust design and proactive cybersecurity are key to safeguarding critical operations. Whether you're managing a remote railway switch or a data center firewall, the same principles of secure networking apply.