Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) for Operational Technology (OT) is a cybersecurity solution designed to protect industrial control systems and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
MXDR for OT is a critical aspect of security where the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and OT has created new, complex challenges. Integrating IT and OT has brought significant benefits to industrial operations, but it has also created vulnerabilities that need to be addressed.
In this blog, we will look at what MXDR for OT is and how it can improve your security posture.
Information Technology Vs Operational Technology Security
In recent years, the convergence of IT and OT systems has created new risks, as more industrial processes are connected to the internet and become vulnerable to attacks. To address these challenges, it is important for organizations to adopt an integrated approach to security that encompasses IT and OT systems. Additionally, businesses must ensure that their security practices and processes are aligned with the unique needs and requirements of their processes.
Information Technology (IT) security refers to the practices used to protect data, systems, and networks used for information processing, storage, and communication. This encompasses the traditional realm of computer and network security, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption. Information technology is better protected with MXDR services.
Operational Technology (OT) security refers to the practices used to protect industrial control systems used to control and monitor physical processes. OT security focuses on ensuring the availability, reliability, and safety of industrial processes, as well as protecting against unauthorized access, interference, and manipulation.
While IT and OT security have many similarities, there are also significant differences between the two. OT systems are designed with a focus on reliability, availability, and performance, whereas IT systems are designed with a focus on flexibility and cost. OT systems are typically isolated from the outside world and are not designed to be connected to the internet, while IT systems are designed to be connected and accessible.
These operating systems and assets are critical to the functioning of factories and healthcare equipment and must be protected from threats that could cause significant harm or disruption.
See how this company was able to successfully integrate its IT and OT security solutions with Difenda in our latest customer win!
What is MXDR for OT?
MXDR for OT provides a comprehensive solution for securing industrial control systems and critical infrastructure. It is designed to provide continuous protection against cyber threats, with 24/7 monitoring and response services. This proactive approach to security helps organizations to detect and respond to cyber threats in real time, reducing the risk of a successful attack.
Organizations with complex operational technology systems and critical infrastructure typically deploy MXDR for OT. MXDR for OT can provide a range of security services, including threat detection and response, incident response, and risk management. It can also provide security intelligence and analysis, helping organizations understand the evolving threat landscape and stay ahead of threats.
Learn more about MXDR for Operational Technology service components in the service brief here.
Key benefits of MXDR for OT
MXDR for OT solutions provide organizations with expert security personnel who are trained in OT security, allowing them to proactively respond to potential threats and improve their overall security posture. The benefits of MXDR for OT include improved threat detection and response, reduced risk, increased visibility and control, and access to expert security personnel.
One of the key benefits of MXDR for OT is the ability to detect and respond to cyber threats in real time. With 24/7 monitoring, MXDR for OT can detect threats and respond quickly, reducing the risk of a successful attack. This real-time response capability is critical for protecting critical infrastructure and industrial control systems, which can be difficult and time-consuming to repair if damaged by a breach.
Another key benefit is the ability to provide a comprehensive view of the security posture of an organization. MXDR for OT provides detailed security reports, including threat intelligence and analysis. This can help organizations understand the evolving threat landscape and the impact of security measures on their operations. This comprehensive view of security can help organizations to make informed decisions about their security posture and make changes as needed to stay ahead of cyber threats.
MXDR for OT can also provide valuable support for incident response and cyber risk management. With MXDR for OT, organizations have access to a team of experts who can help provide guidance on how to mitigate cyber risks. This support can be invaluable for organizations facing a cyber attack or concerned about the potential impact of a cyber attack on their operations.
MXDR for OT provides a comprehensive solution for securing industrial control systems and critical infrastructure. It provides real-time threat detection and response, security intelligence, incident response, and cyber risk management.
Discover how a detailed OT assessment can help identify and solve gaps in your network with the sample OT Environment Assessment Report.
Why Difenda for Operational Technology?
Difenda provides a comprehensive solution for MXDR for OT security, powered by Microsoft Defender for IoT. By partnering with Microsoft Security, Difenda offers advanced security features specifically designed to protect the OT environment.
Some of the key benefits of using Difenda for MXDR for OT include:
- Proven expertise: Difenda has extensive experience and knowledge in providing cybersecurity solutions for the manufacturing and healthcare industries. This makes it a trusted choice for protecting OT environments.
- Integrative approach: Difenda can integrate the IT and OT security environments, providing a comprehensive solution that takes into account the unique requirements of the OT environment.
- Advanced threat detection: Difenda can detect and respond to sophisticated security threats that are often missed by traditional security solutions.
- Customizable reporting: Difenda’s MXDR for Operational Technology solution provides customized reporting and risk management dashboards. Allowing manufacturers to prioritize their security initiatives and focus on the areas that pose the greatest risk to their operations.
- Compliance: Difenda helps businesses meet regulatory compliance requirements, such as NIST and IEC 62443.
From sophisticated security threats to regulatory compliance requirements, Difenda can provide a comprehensive and integrated solution for OT security.