A clear view of your OT assets is the first step toward a secure and resilient industrial network
As the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) continues to expand, traditional network-based asset discovery methods, such as ping sweeps and manual inventories, are becoming obsolete. These outdated approaches lack accuracy and fail to capture the relationships between devices. For IT and OT leaders, improving asset discovery is a top priority to address vulnerabilities in cyber-physical systems (CPS).
A recent survey found that 32% of organizations experienced both IT and OT impacts during a cyberattack—an increase from 21% the previous year. OT asset discovery is the foundation of a strong industrial cybersecurity strategy, laying the groundwork for effective security controls.
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Operational Technology (OT) refers to the hardware and software used to control and monitor industrial processes. OT asset discovery is a method for gaining visibility into these networked systems, providing a detailed inventory of assets without disrupting operations. Unlike traditional IT asset discovery, which is designed for uniform environments, OT asset discovery must accommodate a diverse and often outdated ecosystem of devices.
Using passive network scanning, OT asset discovery can detect:
- IP addresses
- Port numbers
- MAC addresses
- Firmware versions and configuration details
This information enables organizations to map and inventory assets, strengthening their cybersecurity posture.
You can’t secure what you don’t know exists. OT asset discovery is the first step toward industrial cybersecurity.
IT vs. OT Asset Discovery
IT asset discovery and OT asset discovery require different approaches due to the unique characteristics of OT environments:
- IT environments have assets with commonalities, frequent replacements, and standardized software.
- OT environments consist of specialized assets with varying makes, models, and software versions—some operating for decades without updates.
This complexity necessitates an OT-specific discovery approach to ensure accurate visibility and security.
Why Do You Need OT Asset Discovery?
The importance of OT asset discovery cannot be overstated:
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Visibility: “You can’t protect what you can’t see.” Mapping and inventorying assets is crucial.
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Security: Protect OT assets from malware, ransomware, and insecure remote access.
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Operational Efficiency: Prevent downtime and ensure business continuity.
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Compliance: Meet industry regulations such as NIS2, NERC-CIP, and SOCI.
A well-known example of the risks of poor OT security is the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, which caused widespread fuel shortages and financial losses in 2021.
5 Steps to Gain Visibility for Your OT Network Assets
1. Identify OT Assets
Asset discovery must go beyond basic details, providing:
Device model and firmware version
Configuration information
Network connections and dependencies
With this data, organizations can create an accurate asset inventory for effective security management.
2. Map Out Network Topology With 3-D Visibility
Understanding user activity, asset communication, and connectivity paths is essential for operational resilience. Implementing 3-D network topology visualization enhances threat detection and incident response.
3. Combine Active and Passive Scanning
A hybrid approach improves asset discovery:
Passive monitoring collects data without disrupting operations.
Active queries extract deeper insights using device-specific protocols.
By combining these methods, organizations can achieve a more granular view of their OT environments.
4. Utilize OT-Specific Discovery Models
Claroty’s AppDB (Application Description Database) enhances asset discovery by:
Providing detailed protocol, device, and application information
Parsing backup configuration files for precise visibility
Discovering assets even when disconnected from the network
5. Implement Network Segmentation
Network segmentation enhances security by controlling asset communication. The Purdue Model categorizes industrial control systems into security zones, reducing attack surfaces.
Conclusion: The First Step to Securing the OT Environment
OT asset discovery is the cornerstone of a secure industrial network. By implementing these five steps, organizations can protect critical infrastructure, ensure business continuity, and stay ahead of cyber threats.
Partner with Claroty for the most comprehensive OT cybersecurity solutions. Request a demo today to strengthen your asset discovery strategy.
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