With the rise of AI-powered systems and the push for digital transformation in the OT environment, the need for secure remote access has become more critical than ever before. Historically, OT networks had less technology, automation, and external connectivity compared to IT networks.  However, with the arrival of AI, modern manufacturing has become more efficient. According to the WEF, implementing AI in manufacturing alone could boost the global GDP by 2% per year. Consequently, organisations that fail to modernize their OT environments risk falling behind competitors who leverage this technological advantage.

Even public utilities that lack the same competitive pressure of the open market are facing public scrutiny regarding the cost of living. As a result, OT networks are now becoming more like IT networks, which introduces new cybersecurity risks. 

At first glance, the obvious solution to mitigate these risks would be to take the same IT cybersecurity controls and transfer them across to the OT world. However, this approach is not feasible for several reasons.

1. Impact of downtime - OT networks have a higher risk associated with downtime - which can affect safety and production.
2. Diverse protocols -  OT systems use a wide range of protocols that differ significantly from those in IT environments.
3. Specific remote use cases - Remote access requirements for OT users are unique and necessitate tailored controls.

To illustrate one example, let’s consider remote access. A typical corporate remote access user is granted specific access to their corporate applications, with the primary risk being data exfiltration by a malicious insider or an attacker who has hijacked the user's credentials

In contrast, an OT user logging in to monitor production systems or make specific changes to the process control network could be an internal operator or an external third-party vendor specialist logging in to diagnose a fault or make necessary adjustments. These scenarios highlight the need for a Remote Platform Access Management (RPAM) solution that supports OT workflows, enhances operational efficiency, and enforces comprehensive security controls.

OT users often manage large environments and require simple access to the systems they need access to, when they need them. The use of cumbersome jump boxes and VPNs can complicate access and add administrative overhead. As a result, many OT environments see the deployment of unsanctioned remote access protocols by users who feel constrained by the available IT-sanctioned methods. In some cases, IT departments may even insist on not providing remote connectivity, further exacerbating the issue.

Administrators must control user access down to specific servers and time windows, often based on a specific permit to work. This requirement poses a challenge for traditional VPNs and jump boxes. Additionally, access must be secure to minimize the risk of unauthorised users gaining access to OT systems and making malicious changes that could impact production or safety. VPNs and third-party remote access systems with minimal oversight of changes made and control over specific servers accessed leave critical systems vulnerable.

As OT networks enable digital transformation, now is the time to reassess how internal teams and external vendors remotely access its environments.  By providing IT-sanctioned remote access explicitly designed for the OT remote access use case, organisations can safely enable OT digital transformation while improving usability, control, and security.  This opportunity has led to the development of secure remote access platforms, empowering customers to safeguard their digital future for OT networks.