Cyber security | 04 September 2025

As the digital transformation of industry accelerates, one trend continues to come up in conversations with clients and stakeholders: the convergence of Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT).

Once distinct domains - OT handling physical processes and IT managing data and business systems - these areas are becoming increasingly interconnected. This shift brings improved efficiency and real-time insights, but it also introduces serious cyber security concerns.

So, is OT/IT convergence a strategic advantage or a potential security liability? As with most technological change, the answer lies somewhere in between.

The Drivers of Convergence

Several key factors are driving the integration of OT and IT:

• Operational Efficiency: Unified systems improve end-to-end visibility, enabling smarter decision-making, predictive maintenance, and better resource use.
• Digital Transformation Goals: Organisations are aligning their infrastructure to support Industry 4.0 technologies, including AI, IoT, cloud, and edge computing.
• Cost and Resource Optimisation: Shared infrastructure and staffing can reduce operational costs and improve scalability.
• Regulatory Demands: Increasing compliance requirements often need real-time data sharing across what were previously isolated systems.

The Advantages of Integration

For organisations aiming to remain competitive and agile, OT/IT convergence offers clear benefits:

1. Improved Data and Analytics
   Integrating data from production systems and enterprise networks enables deeper insights and continuous improvement.
2. Faster Incident Response
   A unified security architecture makes it easier to detect and respond to threats quickly, minimising downtime.
3. Support for Innovation
   Integrated systems make it easier to adopt new technologies like machine learning, digital twins, and automated supply chains.

The Cyber Security Challenge

However, this convergence also brings significant cyber security risks - particularly in OT environments:

1. Greater Exposure to Threats
   Previously isolated OT systems are now being connected to internet-facing networks, opening up new attack vectors for ransomware, malware, and targeted threats.
2. Legacy System Vulnerabilities
   Many OT systems were not designed with cyber security in mind. They often run outdated software, lack modern security controls, and use proprietary protocols that are hard to secure or update.
3. Cultural and Organisational Misalignment
   IT teams often focus on data security and confidentiality, while OT teams prioritise uptime and safety. Aligning these priorities requires ongoing communication and collaboration.
4. Compliance Complexity
   Combining IT and OT environments can complicate governance, auditing, and access control - especially in regulated sectors like energy, manufacturing, and utilities.

Navigating the Path Forward

Despite the challenges, OT/IT convergence is not just inevitable - it’s essential. The key is taking a balanced, security-first approach. Consider these strategies:

• Adopt a Zero Trust Architecture: Verify every user, device, and connection - regardless of location or network.
• Segment Networks by Risk: Maintain logical and physical separation between critical OT systems and broader IT networks.
• Foster Collaboration: Encourage joint planning and cross-training between OT and IT teams to bridge knowledge gaps and align priorities.
• Use Purpose-Built Security Tools: Traditional IT tools aren’t always suited to OT. Use solutions designed specifically for industrial protocols and control systems.

Conclusion

The convergence of OT and IT represents a pivotal moment for industrial organisations - offering stronger efficiency, insight, and innovation. But these benefits come with new risks that must be carefully managed.

Organisations that take a collaborative and security-conscious approach - blending the strengths of IT and OT while addressing their unique challenges - will be best equipped to thrive in this new landscape.

As this trend continues, one thing is certain: OT and IT can no longer remain in silos. The future isn’t just connected - it must be secure.

Ready to strengthen your OT/IT convergence strategy?

If you’re exploring how to manage the risks of convergence while unlocking its full potential, our team is here to help. We work closely with asset-heavy industries to support secure, sustainable digital transformation.

Contact us to discuss how we can help you achieve your operational and cyber security objectives.