Industrial Control Systems/
Operational Technology
Industrial Control Systems/Operational Technology (ICS/OT) refers to the technologies and systems used to control, monitor, and manage physical industrial processes—like running a power plant, operating a water treatment facility, or automating a manufacturing line. ICS is the specific system that automates and controls industrial processes. At the same time, OT (Operational Technology) is the broader category, encompassing the hardware and software used to interact with the physical world (machines, valves, sensors, etc.).
ICS/OT powers the real-world systems that run modern infrastructure and industry. These technologies manage everything from city water supplies to power grids and factory robots. Their safety, reliability, and security are essential to critical infrastructure and national security.
ICS/OT works by using sensors to gather data from physical processes, controllers such as PLCs/RTUs to process that data and make decisions, and Actuators to respond with physical actions. The SCADA or DCS oversees and coordinates operations, while Operators monitor everything through HMI systems.
Fredericksburg, Virginia
RPI's solution is agnostic: we make a difference by, whenever possible, leveraging your Legacy Equipment. Many of these ICS/OT systems were built decades ago without cybersecurity. We meet real-time requirements: systems must operate continuously with near-zero downtime. Our solutions are Safety-critical because errors can cause physical damage or put lives at risk. We reduce Cybersecurity Risks by Increasing connectivity (e.g., remote access, IIoT) exposes systems to cyber threats.