IIoT Security: Protecting Industrial Networks
IIoT Security: Protecting Industrial Networks Industrial networks mix OT devices, sensors, PLCs, and business IT. Security must be practical and keep uptime. In IIoT, threats can move quickly across plant floors and data centers, so a steady, repeatable approach works best. Start with a simple plan that emphasizes visibility and resilience. Key risks in IIoT Unsecured devices and weak passwords Poor network segmentation Unpatched software and legacy systems Insufficient visibility and logging Practical steps for protection Start with asset inventory and classify devices by risk and function. Segment networks into zones and enforce strict borders between IT and OT. Apply patch management and firmware updates on a regular schedule. Harden devices: disable unused services, change default credentials, and enable secure boot where possible. Enforce access control and MFA for critical systems and remote access. Monitor for anomalies and maintain baseline behavior across the network. Real-world example A mid-sized plant used a dedicated OT gateway to translate protocols and log events to a central SIEM. With clear segmentation, a malware alert in IT did not spread to the PLCs, reducing downtime while alert teams investigated. ...