SCADA Systems
What are SCADA Systems?
SCADA (also known as supervisory control and data acquisition) is a system within an infrastructure that generally handles the processes of production and gathers essential real-time data which is able to be reviewed by a human operator. SCADA can be integrated into components of the infrastructure such as computers or hardware in which it can help send alerts to the operator of critical system issues if conditions are met. Because of the technological versatility of this system, it is many different infrastructures ranging from airports to space stations. With this in mind, they are often complemented with the HMI, which is linked to the SCADA to provide logistics and maintenance control to the operator (SCADA Systems).
Vulnerabilities associated with critical infrastructure systems
Vulnerabilities continue to be a major issue in infrastructures. Many vulnerabilities in infrastructures range from both technically as in their hardware is faulty and isn’t sufficient enough for production or their security system doesn’t have the capabilities to fend off the activities of a hacker. It can also be present physically/mentally as in the employees might not be able to handle situations in real-time on the spot. Either way whatever one it may be, these vulnerabilities can lead to increased chances of cyberattacks and economic costs that are detrimental to the infrastructure. Because of this, changes are often required to be made by these infrastructures in order to meet the standards in today’s online world and the hostilities that exist within. Many potential ways to improve these vulnerabilities are available such as strengthening the security system, upgrading hardware, and education programs for employees.
SCADA Application’s role in mitigating these risks
A great example of being able to mitigate these risks is through using the SCADA system, where it can help infrastructures in real-time events. Making sure first when this system is implemented that it is strong enough to handle these capabilities is most important when addressing these risks. It is a way of maintaining normality in an infrastructure, allowing to keep operations flowing at a consistent and effective pace. The SCADA system’s role in mitigating these risks is through several factors:
• Communication channels can be implemented into the SCADA so that way employees have a means to send data and messages between each other if a situation were to occur in which a quick response is needed between employees.
• The SCADA system, if certain conditions are met, can quickly alert operators and managers of any vulnerabilities detected within the infrastructure system. This in real-time can help employees act more quickly on security issues, reducing chances of hardware faults or cyberattacks and keeping a more consistent flow within.
• More modern SCADA systems are able to process and transfer data efficiently between operators allowing for an effective infrastructure system and data control. This further strengthens communication levels as the system is quick to act on errors (Inductive Automation).
SCADA systems continue to be a means of effective production for infrastructures. With them constantly evolving, more utilizations are being used by infrastructures for integrity. It serves as a way of meeting prosperity and providing maintenance in their systems as. With the constant threats of cyberattacks and them willing to take advantage of vulnerabilities, SCADA systems are becoming more desired to ensure their infrastructure’s systems is maintained and effective against preventing cyberattacks, as it can help mitigate these risks.
Works Cited
SCADA Systems. (n.d.). Retrieved March 15, 2023, from http://www.scadasystems.net/
What is SCADA? Inductive Automation. (n.d.). Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://inductiveautomation.com/resources/article/what-is-scada