The Role of Cybersecurity in Secure Industrial Modernization

Across industries, modernization is no longer a matter of “if” but “when.” From manufacturing plants to utilities, ports to energy plants, organizations are embracing digital transformation to stay competitive, meet growing demand, and operate more efficiently.

This process - often called industrial modernization - brings together innovative technologies such as cloud computing, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), advanced analytics, and AI-driven automation. But with this opportunity comes a challenge that can no longer be overlooked: cybersecurity.

Why modernization needs cybersecurity at its core 

Industrial modernization is not just about upgrading machines or implementing new software. It’s about creating connected ecosystems where operational technology (OT) - the systems controlling physical processes - increasingly integrates with information technology (IT) – systems that manage data, applications, and networks. 

The IT/OT convergence brings in important security features and related benefits, such as: 

• Real-time monitoring of production lines coupled with automation can identify suspicious activities or connections
• Predictive maintenance that prevents costly downtime 
• Data-driven decision making for operational efficiency and sustainability 
• Remote operations and control for flexibility and resilience

However, the same interconnectivity between IT and OT can lead to vulnerabilities. Many legacy OT systems were never designed to be connected to the internet, let alone withstand sophisticated cyberattacks that happen nowadays. Without strong security measures, modernization efforts can accidentally expand the attack surface, putting operations, safety, and even critical infrastructures at risk.

The reality is that cyber threats to industrial environments are growing in scale and impact. Ransomware attacks on manufacturing plants, breaches in energy distribution networks, and disruptions to transportation systems have made headlines worldwide.

Attackers are targeting not just IT networks anymore. OT systems are becoming the main target for malicious actors, knowing that operational disruptions can cause significant financial, reputational, and also societal damage.

Factors driving these risks include:

• Increasing connectivity of legacy OT devices (without appropriate cybersecurity measures)
• Complex global supply chains with many third-party vendors 
• Regulatory pressures requiring compliance with evolving standards (e.g., NIS2, IEC 62443, NIST) 
• Geopolitical tensions affecting cyber operations

Building cybersecurity into modernization plans

Secure industrial modernization starts with designing cybersecurity into the process from the outset, rather than adding it as an afterthought. Key considerations include:

1. Access management 

Controlling who can access systems, when, and under what conditions is very important. Modern identity and access management solutions - including just-in-time access and role-based controls - minimize the risk of unauthorized or excessive privileges.

• Supply chain security

Industrial ecosystems depend on a web of suppliers, contractors, and service providers. Each connection can be a potential entry point for attackers. Strong checks, clear rules, and continuous oversight of third parties help manage security risks.

• Compliance and standards

Regulatory frameworks such as ISA/IEC 62443 and NIS2 Directive provide structured approaches to securing industrial systems. Compliance not only reduces risk but also strengthens trust with customers, partners, and regulators.

• Incident response preparedness

Even with the best defenses, incidents can still occur. Having well-tested incident response plans ensures rapid containment, minimal downtime, and effective recovery.

People, processes, and technology — together

Technology alone cannot secure modernization. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility across the organization. Success depends on:

• People - training employees and partners to recognize and respond to threats 
• Processes - embedding security into operational workflows 
• Technology - deploying solutions that provide visibility, control, and resilience across IT and OT environments

When these elements work together, organizations can confidently innovate without compromising safety or reliability.

The strategic advantage of secure modernization

Lastly, cybersecurity enables modernization. It allows organizations to adopt new technologies without exposing themselves to unacceptable risks. Secure modernization leads to:

• Greater operational uptime 
• Enhanced safety for workers and the public 
• Stronger brand reputation 
• Compliance with industry and governmental requirements 
• Long-term competitiveness in a rapidly changing market

Without reliable cybersecurity, efforts to modernize may slow down, cost more than expected, or fail altogether.

Interested in learning more on this topic?

Join Rami Raulas, CEO at SSH Communications Security, for his presentation “Why Is Cybersecurity Key for Secure Industrial Modernization: Managing Access, Supply Chain Risks, and Compliance” on November 5 at 13:45 at the Gold Stage at Cyber Security Nordic 2025.