Netskope highlights transition from VPNs to zero trust access for OT and IIoT

The recent blog discusses the limitations of traditional VPNs in Operational technology (OT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) (IoT) settings, endorsing a transition to zero trust network access.

Limitations of Traditional VPNs

Modern industrial ecosystems are now interconnected, linking various devices and platforms, thus enhancing operational benefits while also introducing new cyber vulnerabilities.

Conventional Virtual Private Network (VPN) solutions lack the capability to manage these complexities, providing broad access with limited visibility and consequently becoming attractive targets for cyber threats. Current data indicates that 45% of cyber exploits in 2024 targeted VPNs.

Need for Improved Access Control

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, using outdated access technologies poses risks to both safety and operational continuity. Contemporary security strategies must implement access controls that correspond to these evolving threats.

Employing zero trust principles along with zero trust network access (Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA)) creates a framework that secures interactions by ensuring connections depend on verified identities and assessed risk factors.

Netskope One Private Access Features

Netskope One Private Access offers a Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution customized for OT environments, allowing secure access to essential systems while safeguarding wider network exposure. Key features include role-based access, continuous adaptive security, and optimized performance.

Granular access is maintained through the consideration of various criteria such as user identity and device risk. Continuous monitoring and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms facilitate adaptive adjustments to access based on user behaviors and identified threats.

Emphasis on Performance and Compliance

Organizations utilizing Netskope's infrastructure benefit from consistently low-latency access while complying with industry regulations. The system promotes seamless operations alongside centralized visibility and control.

This approach allows organizations to uphold essential standards while ensuring operational effectiveness.

Conclusion

The blog highlights the necessity of updating access methodologies for OT and Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) (IIOT) systems, presenting Netskope One Private Access as a viable option to improve security, visibility, and performance in industrial networks. This summary serves as a current, factual representation of the original blog post.