Learning outcomes
- Explain the key principles of industrial network cybersecurity.
- Carry out a structured practical check or configuration task.
- Recognise common faults, risks and evidence needed for diagnosis.
Module 9 · Lesson 4
Industrial network cybersecurity
Apply segmentation, firewalls, secure remote access, accounts, backups, patching and monitoring to OT networks.
Before you begin
Approved architecture, asset inventory and site policy.
Safety: Use site procedures, approved test equipment and competent supervision. Never bypass a protection or interlock without formal control.
Step-by-step learning
- Create an accurate asset and communications-flow inventory.
- Separate enterprise, supervisory, control and safety zones with controlled conduits.
- Use individual accounts, least privilege and multi-factor authentication where supported.
- Back up configurations and test restoration in a controlled environment.
Ian's practical tips:
- Availability matters, but “never patch” is not a cybersecurity strategy.
- Remote access should be time-limited, logged and deliberately enabled.
Fault-finding questions
- What should be happening, and what evidence proves it?
- Where is the last known correct signal, voltage, state or process condition?
- What changed immediately before the fault?
- Can the system be divided into smaller testable sections?
Practical activity
Create a one-page test record for this lesson. Include expected values, measured results, equipment used, risks controlled, defects found and the final proven condition.