As organizations increasingly merge IT (information technology) and OT (operational technology) environments, architecture challenges arise because IT and OT were not meant to work together. One manages information, and the other handles machines.
Let’s see some of the challenges of IT/OT convergence.
Key Challenges of IT/OT Convergence
Integration: Merging IT and OT introduces challenges, such as compatibility issues and operational risks, as they are inherently independent of each other.
Data management: OT data is typically high-volume and real-time, while IT data comes from diverse sources and may not always require immediate processing.
Cybersecurity: Combining IT and OT increases the attack surface, leading to a higher risk of successful cyberattacks.
Workforce and organizational gaps: IT and OT teams have different approaches and priorities, which can lead to conflict and make collaboration more difficult.
How the Edge Addresses IT/OT Convergence Challenges
Edge computing involves processing data close to where it is generated, rather than sending it to distant servers or the cloud. This helps reduce delays and save bandwidth while also enhancing security and reliability. By handling data locally, organizations can analyze it in real-time and respond quickly, thereby minimizing the risks and costs associated with data transfer.
IT Landing Zone in the OT Environment
Edge computing helps IT teams reduce infrastructure bloat. Instead of managing multiple scattered systems, they can consolidate applications and workloads onto a single platform.Fault Tolerance
Implementing a fault-tolerant edge computing platform helps ensure that critical operations continue uninterrupted even in the event of a malfunction.Simplified Manageability and Serviceability
Applications can be deployed, patched and scaled at the edge, and IT monitoring tools can run on edge computing platforms. This enables IT teams to monitor system performance, identify potential issues, and apply necessary updates without disrupting OT operations.
To know more about the challenges of IT/OT convergence and how Edge computing can help in this scenario, check out this blog by THENEWSTACK.