Rethinking DCS Security in the Age of Connectivity
Distributed Control Systems (DCS) have long been the backbone of industrial automation—keeping processes stable, efficient, and precise. But while they were engineered for reliability, they weren’t built with cybersecurity in mind. As OT networks become connected and remote operations expand, DCS infrastructures face new threats they were never designed to withstand.
The Hidden Risks of Modern OT Environments
What was once “air-gapped” is now online. Remote troubleshooting, cloud integration, and vendor access have blurred the lines between IT and OT. Each connection, no matter how temporary, introduces potential vulnerabilities. From ransomware attacks to unauthorised access, the consequences of a breach extend beyond data loss—they threaten uptime, safety, and compliance.
Why Traditional Defenses Fall Short
Firewalls and segmentation still play vital roles, but they can’t answer critical questions: Who is accessing the system? Are they authorised? Can we trace their actions? Shared logins, static passwords, and outdated credential systems make true accountability nearly impossible. Even skilled engineers can’t secure systems lacking identity-based access control.
When Access Becomes the Weakest Link
Unsecured DCS access can trigger devastating outcomes—production halts, disabled safety interlocks, and violations of NIS2 or IEC 62443. Unlike IT systems, recovery isn’t just about restoring data; it often involves physical recalibration and downtime that can cost millions. In this environment, identity has become the new perimeter.
Introducing Identity-First Security for Industrial Control
Modernising DCS cybersecurity begins by enforcing who can access what and when. swIDch’s One-Time Authentication Code (OTAC) technology delivers secure, dynamic, non-replayable access—binding credentials to verified individuals, even on legacy or offline systems. This eliminates static passwords while maintaining operational continuity.
Bridging the Gap Between Legacy and Modern Security
Even decade-old DCS platforms can be retrofitted with modern authentication. With solutions like PLC OTAC, OTAC Trusted Access Gateway (TAG), and MFA for PLCnext, operators can achieve compliance, eliminate shared credentials, and enable full auditability—without costly system overhauls or downtime.
Identity: The Foundation of Operational Trust
In today’s threat landscape, uptime and safety depend on trust—knowing that every action in a control system can be traced to an authorised individual. By embedding identity at the process layer, organisations strengthen resilience, meet evolving regulations, and prepare for the next era of industrial automation security.
The Future of DCS Protection Starts with How You Log In
Securing DCS environments is no longer about adding more firewalls—it’s about rethinking access itself. Identity-first protection transforms cybersecurity from a reactive measure into a foundation for operational excellence. With solutions designed for OT realities, industries can achieve both safety and efficiency—without compromise.