Operational Technology (OT) is facing far-reaching changes. Industrial plants, production environments and critical infrastructure are becoming increasingly connected. Artificial intelligence, 5G and digital twins are finding their way into OT environments and transforming the operation of industrial systems. Our study, ‘Operational Technology Outlook 2026’, examines technological developments, security requirements and regulatory frameworks in the OT landscape.
New technologies are transforming OT environments
The use of artificial intelligence, 5G and digital twins is opening up new possibilities for the control and monitoring of plant and processes. Many companies are therefore investing more heavily in the modernisation of their OT landscapes. According to a study, generative AI is now one of the top investment priorities for many companies.
As connectivity increases, so does the attack surface. The integration of IT and OT systems places greater demands on cyber security and risk management.
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Creating transparency regarding plant and systems
Asset discovery and asset management create transparency regarding plant and systems. They help to assess risks, implement security measures in a more targeted manner and support the secure operation of OT environments. Our experts cite this transparency as a key prerequisite for the protection of critical infrastructure.
Neue Vorgaben erhöhen den Handlungsdruck
Regulatorische Anforderungen an die Sicherheit von OT-Systemen nehmen weltweit zu. Vorgaben wie NIS2, NIST oder ISA/IEC 62443 verlangen nachvollziehbare Sicherheitsmaßnahmen, klare Verantwortlichkeiten und geeignete Governance-Strukturen. Gleichzeitig befassen sich Management und Aufsichtsgremien intensiver mit OT-Risiken als noch vor wenigen Jahren.
New regulations are increasing the pressure to act
Regulatory requirements for the security of OT systems are increasing worldwide. Regulations such as NIS2, NIST or ISA/IEC 62443 require traceable security measures, clear responsibilities and appropriate governance structures. At the same time, management and supervisory bodies are paying closer attention to OT risks than they did just a few years ago.
Why legacy systems remain a challenge for OT security
Many industrial companies operate plant with long life cycles. Whilst mechanical components are often used for several decades, manufacturer support for software and control systems ends considerably sooner. This increases the demands placed on the modernisation of existing OT environments.
Download the study and find out about the latest developments in the field of Operational Technology.
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KPMG Insights about Operational Technology
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Thomas Gronenwald
Partner, Consulting - Cyber Security & Resilience
KPMG AG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft
Alexander Hauke
Senior Manager, Consulting - Cyber Security & Resilience
KPMG AG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft
Konstantin Schäfers
Manager, Consulting - Cyber Security & Resilience
KPMG AG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft
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FAQs
Operational Technology (OT) encompasses systems that monitor, control or automate physical processes. These include, for example, machines, production facilities, industrial control systems and technical infrastructure.
IT processes, stores and transmits data. OT controls and monitors physical processes, for example in production facilities or industrial networks. The study provides examples of IT, such as ERP, cloud and network systems, and of OT, such as machines, robots and production lines.
Typical OT systems include:
- Industrial control systems (ICS)
- SCADA systems
- Machines and production facilities
- Robots, sensors and actuators
- Medical devices such as CT scanners or insulin pumps
- Smart grids and other energy infrastructures
NIS2 is a European cybersecurity directive. It requires affected organisations to systematically address IT and OT risks, introduce appropriate protective measures and report certain security incidents. The requirements apply to organisations in selected economic and infrastructure sectors. Whether an organisation falls under NIS2 depends, amongst other things, on its field of activity and the relevant legal requirements.