---
title: "8 Critical Principles to Secure OT Networks from Cyber Threats"
short_title: "How to secure OT networks with 8 key principles"
description: "CISA and NCSC-UK release essential guidance on securing operational technology (OT) networks. Learn 8 principles to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats."
author: "Vitus"
date: 2025-01-24
categories: [Cybersecurity, Vulnerabilities]
tags: [ot security, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, cisa, ncsc-uk]
score: 0.78
cve_ids: []
---
TL;DR
CISA and the UK’s NCSC have published a joint guide outlining eight core principles to secure connectivity in operational technology (OT) networks. This guidance is critical for asset owners, especially operators of essential services, to address growing business and regulatory demands for OT connectivity while mitigating cyber risks.
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Main Content
Operational technology (OT) networks, the backbone of critical infrastructure, are increasingly targeted by cyber threats due to their expanding connectivity and digital transformation. To address this growing risk, CISA and the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC-UK) have collaborated with federal and international partners to release [Secure Connectivity Principles for Operational Technology (OT)](https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/operational-technology/secure-connectivity). This guidance provides a framework of eight principles to help asset owners design, secure, and manage connectivity into OT environments effectively.
Key Points
- Urgent Need for OT Security: As OT networks become more interconnected, they face heightened exposure to cyber threats, including ransomware, espionage, and disruptive attacks.
- Eight Core Principles: The guidance outlines a structured approach to securing OT connectivity, emphasizing risk assessment, segmentation, access control, and monitoring.
- Target Audience: The principles are particularly vital for operators of essential services, such as energy, water, healthcare, and transportation, where OT disruptions can have catastrophic consequences.
- Regulatory and Business Pressures: Asset owners must balance the demand for connectivity with compliance requirements and cybersecurity best practices.
Technical Details
The eight principles outlined in the guidance serve as a comprehensive framework for securing OT networks:
1. Risk Assessment: Conduct regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and threats specific to OT environments.
2. Network Segmentation: Isolate OT networks from IT networks and the internet to minimize attack surfaces.
3. Access Control: Implement strict access controls, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) and least-privilege principles.
4. Monitoring and Detection: Deploy continuous monitoring tools to detect anomalous activity and potential breaches in real time.
5. Incident Response: Develop and test incident response plans tailored to OT environments to ensure rapid recovery from cyber incidents.
6. Supply Chain Security: Assess and mitigate risks associated with third-party vendors and suppliers.
7. Patch Management: Establish a robust patch management process to address vulnerabilities in OT systems promptly.
8. Awareness and Training: Educate employees and stakeholders about OT-specific cybersecurity risks and best practices.
Impact Assessment
The guidance addresses a critical gap in OT security, where traditional IT security measures often fall short. By adopting these principles, asset owners can:
- Reduce the risk of cyberattacks that could disrupt essential services.
- Enhance resilience against evolving threats, including state-sponsored actors and cybercriminals.
- Align with regulatory requirements, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and EU NIS2 Directive, which mandate robust cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure.
- Improve operational efficiency by integrating security into the design and management of OT networks.
Failure to implement these principles could result in severe consequences, including financial losses, reputational damage, and threats to public safety.
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Conclusion
The Secure Connectivity Principles for Operational Technology (OT) guidance from CISA and NCSC-UK provides a timely and essential roadmap for securing critical infrastructure. As OT networks continue to evolve, asset owners must prioritize cybersecurity to mitigate risks and ensure the reliability of essential services. By adopting these eight principles, organizations can build a proactive defense against cyber threats and safeguard their operations for the future.
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References
[^1]: CISA. "[Secure Connectivity Principles for Operational Technology (OT)](https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/secure-connectivity-principles-operational-technology-ot)". Retrieved 2025-01-24.
[^2]: NCSC-UK. "[Operational Technology: Secure Connectivity](https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/operational-technology/secure-connectivity)". Retrieved 2025-01-24.