This entry will describe how a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system works. I will explain the different components of the system, the generations of SCADA systems, and their advantages and disadvantages.
Introduction
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, a system that controls different processes such as infrastructure, facility-based, or industrial processes. It collects and runs data from the sensors at a remote location to a central computer that manages and controls the data. SCADA is used in water management systems, mass transit systems, electric power, and many other technologies that people use daily. These are complex systems stationed in various sites that can be miles away from each other. Remote Terminal Units and Programmable Logic Controllers connect the systems; these are called field devices. On the other hand, Human Machine Interface (HMI) have the same purpose; however, they are controlled by operators. Human operators can view the data collected in the form of a graph then they can control the machines based on the information. It shows real-time data which workers decide quickly on the controls. The SCADA system is mostly technology-controlled, but human operators are still needed to ensure the smoothness of the system.
Components of a SCADA System
Most of the control functions are conducted in remote terminal units or by programmable logic controllers. They physically control the equipment such as the water flow; they are responsible for opening or closing valves or turning a switch on and off. RTUs and PLCs are connected to the field devices that collect data from sensors and send them to the SCADA system. A ‘supervisory station’ is the software that is in charge of sending data to the Human Machine Interface. Once the HMI receives the data, they examine reports to see any problems with the system. Data is usually easy to understand, so they can respond swiftly to any problems encountered in the system. HMIs can either be cloud-based or have their own servers.
Generations of the SCADA Systems
SCADA Systems are growing, meaning they must be updated to adapt to new technology and improve their operation. The first SCADA System was monolithic. The systems were not interconnected with each other; there was no network connection. The Wide Area Networks were created to help the connection with the RTU. There was little to no security in the systems at the time, but as the demand for SCADA systems increased, vendors were forced to improve their system.
The second generation of SCADA was distributed. Local area network (LAN) technology was introduced in the system. The data between different stations was shared at the same time it was being collected. The cost and size of the stations became smaller; however, it came with more security issues for the SCADA systems. At this time, consumers were not aware of any security risks.
The newest SCADA system uses networking to communicate between the system and the master station. They introduced Internet Protocol to connect the entirety of the system through the Internet. With the internet being involved, the protocols can be accessed and risks increase. Security measures must be applied to ensure the safety of the system from any hackers.
Security Risks
Since SCADA systems are huge remote controls for important physical processes, they must always be secured and protected from harm. They are potential big targets of cyberterrorism/cyberwarfare attacks. Companies must be aware of the vulnerabilities of a system this big. The two major threats are unauthorized access and packet access to the network. According to Infosec, “The researchers revealed that 449 vulnerabilities were disclosed affecting ICS products from 59 vendors during 2H 2020.” Hackers can find their way into systems through vulnerabilities or weaknesses. These can potentially lead to data breaches and viruses. Unauthorized access to the software can affect the entire system and have large consequences. Secondly, there is little to no security on the packer control protocol. Users assume they are safe from unauthorized access because of their VPN; however, network switches and jacks can override the security of the software. These risks must be looked at to ensure the safety of their systems
To mitigate these risks, organizations can apply firewalls and intrusion detection systems. They should regularly assess and patch any vulnerabilities found in their systems. Additionally, SCADA vendors are beginning to develop specialized industrial VPNs and firewalls to increase the safety of SCADA systems. Security risks will always come with technology, but with enough protection, they can be fought against.
Advantages of SCADA Systems
Though SCADA Systems come with many risks and vulnerabilities, there are advantages to look at. SCADA Systems are known for collecting data instantaneously. Data visualization tools allow users to see information that meets their requirements. These tools include charts and graphs showing data, making it easy for users to analyze the data, and increasing response time to any risks or disruptions. Users are quickly notified of any red flags in their system. Additionally, SCADA systems collect immense amounts of data. They can store mass amounts of data to analyze trends and patterns, helping to improve the systems (Roberts, 2024). Putting aside the risks and vulnerabilities, SCADA systems help the country’s infrastructure run smoother and more efficiently.
References
(n.d.). SCADA Systems – SCADA Systems. Retrieved November 4, 2024, from https://www.scadasystems.net/
Paganini, P. (2021). Understanding ICS/SCADA Threats: Protecting Critical Infrastructure. Infosec. Retrieved November 3, 2024, from https://www.infosecinstitute.com/resources/scada-ics-security/ics-scada-threats-and-threat-actors/
Roberts, S. (2024, February 21). Advantages and Disadvantages Of Scada: Explained. The Knowledge Academy. Retrieved November 4, 2024, from https://www.theknowledgeacademy.com/blog/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-scada/