As cyberattacks grow more advanced, targeting the essential systems of modern life—from energy pipelines and manufacturing plants to airports and telecom networks—governments are increasing pressure on industries to fortify their digital and physical defenses.
A series of high-profile breaches, including the shutdown of Seattle’s port and airport and disruptions to emergency services in New York, have triggered calls for action. As early as 2020, agencies like the NSA and CISA urged critical infrastructure operators to tighten their cybersecurity frameworks.
Despite this, progress has been gradual. Many businesses remain hesitant due to perceived costs. However, experts argue that merging operational technology (OT)—which controls physical equipment—with information technology (IT)—which manages digital systems—offers both protection and growth potential.
This fusion not only enhances reliability and minimizes service interruptions, but also creates opportunities for innovation and revenue generation, as highlighted by experts in a recent conversation with CIO Upside.
“By integrating (Internet-of-Things) and OT systems, you gain visibility into processes that were previously opaque,” Sonu Shankar, chief product officer at Phosphorus, told CIO Upside. Well-managed systems are a “launchpad for innovation,” said Shankar, allowing enterprises to make use of raw operational data.
“This doesn’t just facilitate operational efficiencies — it would potentially generate new revenue streams born from integrated visibility,” Shankar added.
Understanding OT and Its Role
Operational technology refers to any hardware or system essential to a business’s core services—such as factory machinery, production lines, logistics hubs, and even connected office devices like smart printers.
Upgrading these legacy systems might seem overwhelming, particularly for industries reliant on outdated hardware. But OT-IT convergence doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, several affordable and scalable solutions already exist.
Technologies such as network segmentation, zero trust architecture, and cloud-based OT-IT platforms provide robust protection and visibility:
Network segmentation breaks a primary network into smaller, isolated units—making it harder for unauthorized users to access critical systems.
Zero trust security continuously verifies users and devices, reducing the risks posed by human error or misconfigurations.
Cloud platforms offer centralized insights, historical logs, automated system upkeep, and AI-powered threat detection—making it easier to anticipate and prevent cyber threats.
Fused OT-IT environments lay the groundwork for faster product development and better service delivery, said James McQuiggan, security awareness advocate at KnowBe4.
“When OT and IT systems can communicate effectively and securely across multiple platforms and teams, the development cycle is more efficient and potentially brings products or services to market faster,” he said. “For CIOs, they are no longer just supporting the business, but shaping what it will become.”
As digital threats escalate and customer expectations rise, the integration of OT and IT is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative for security, resilience, and long-term growth