Operational technology (OT) is a system of hardware and software that monitors and controls physical devices and processes.

It differs from information technology (IT) in that it directly interacts with the physical world to ensure industrial systems operate both safely and efficiently. This includes a range of systems, from programmable logic controllers (PLCs) on a factory floor to SCADA systems that manage large-scale operations.

The cybersecurity of OT systems has become a critical concern. The growing connectivity of these previously isolated systems exposes them to new cyber threats. A successful attack on OT can have severe consequences, including physical harm, production disruptions, and damage to critical infrastructure.