SCADA systems are used to control things like water plants and power grids. They help workers keep an eye on these systems, but they aren’t perfect. SCADA systems also have a lot of problems. Many of these systems are old and just haven’t been updated. According to our Power-point Slide 36, “Security for engineering cyber system is typically five to ten years behind.” which to me, means they are easy to hack. The word document on SCADA Systems says, “The security of SCADA-based systems is being questions, as they are potential targets of cyberterrorism/cyberwarfare attacks.” 

One big issue with SCADA is that it’s hard to keep things running if the system breaks. For example, Parasyn says, “Redundancy is inherently intricate” which to me means that backup systems don’t always work properly. If there’s a failure, there could be data loss or system outages that last longer than they should. 3AG systems also mentions that “SCADA systems are expensive to update” and because of that, many systems are running on outdated software. This might make it easier for cybercriminals to find weak spots and cause damage. The PowerPoint also shows how simple passwords, and poor protection can leave the whole system exposed. These could lead to bigger issues if something like a power plant of water supply gets hacked. 

Even though SCADA systems have problems, they are still important. They help manage big systems by collecting data and controlling machines. The Word document on SCADA Systems says, “SCADA refers to the centralized systems that control and monitor entire sites” to me this shows how big of a role it plays. The systems let workers respond to emergencies and fix issues before they get worse. But on the other hand, I think in order for SCADA systems to work really well, companies need to keep their software updated and train their employees. Automation World says that “System improvements, and training of plant resources are all important. Without these updates and training, even the best SCADA systems won’t be able to protect us.” 

In conclusion, SCADA systems are a big part of modern life, but it’s not perfect. Old software and weak security make them vulnerable. Hackers can take advantage of these problems, and that could lead to real damage. But with proper updates, tainting, and maybe even better system designs, SCADA can continue to keep our plants, and water supplies, running safely. 3AG systems says, “If your SCADA sucks, you probably have much bigger problems” Taking the time to improve SCADA is worth it for everyone’s safety. 

Works Cited 

“5 Reasons SCADA Systems Suck.” 3AG Systems, 12 Mar. 2020, www.3agsystems.com/post/5-reasons-scada-systems-suck. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

“Preparing for SCADA System Challenges.” Automation World, 5 Oct. 2023, www.automationworld.com/control/article/55036809/preparing-for-scada-system-challenges. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

“The Top 5 Problems with SCADA Systems.” Parasyn, 24 Oct. 2018, www.parasyn.com.au/article/the-top-5-problems-with-scada-systems/. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

CYSE-200, Mod 5 Cyber Technologies in Engineering Systems Power Point

SCADA Systems. www.scadasystems.net.