What is the role of network access control in OT environments?

Network access control (NAC) plays a crucial role in securing Operational Technology (OT) environments by ensuring that only authorized devices and users can access the network and its resources. NAC enforces policies that govern which devices and users are allowed to connect to the network, what level of access they have, and under what conditions they can connect.

In OT environments, where the interconnectedness of devices can impact critical operations, NAC helps to prevent unauthorized access, reduce the attack surface, and mitigate the risks associated with potential cyber threats. By implementing NAC solutions, organizations can authenticate and authorize devices and users before allowing them to connect to the network, which helps maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of OT systems and data.

NAC also provides visibility into connected devices, their security posture, and their compliance with network security policies. It enables continuous monitoring and enforcement of security policies, threat detection, and rapid response to security incidents in OT environments. Overall, NAC is a key component in the defense-in-depth strategy for securing OT environments against unauthorized access.