What is scada? Definition and Details paessler com/it-explained/scada it explained: scada back to index Content

SCADA security
SCADA systems were not originally designed with security in mind.
Some of the most common security vulnerabilities in SCADA systems identified by the
NIST are weak or non-existent authentication of field devices, unencrypted
communications with SCADA MTUs, lack of process control-specific security policies,
unsecure network connections, widespread availability to cyber criminals of information
about control systems, lack of maintenance and monitoring of equipment, and adoption of
technologies with known vulnerabilities.
The security of modern SCADA systems is addressed by several standards, guidelines,
and best practice documents. These documents were developed by organizations like the
IEEE, Underwriters Laboratory (UL), the DOE, the NERC, the Centre for the Protection of
National Infrastructure (CPNI), and the NIST.
Many organizations use the ISO/IEC 27002 and ISO/IEC 17799 standards as a basis for
SCADA security management.
SCADA benefits
Access to real-time data allows businesses and people to make fast, data-driven
decisions
Can improve product and service quality by producing consistent output and
automating quality control checks
Improves safety standards by replacing people with machines in dangerous work
environments
Provides numerous metrics to facilitate faster industrial transformation
Automates processes where tasks are complex, repetitive, or prone to human error
like traffic systems

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Allows for the implementation of monitoring processes to protect the environment
and optimize energy usage
Allows for the storage of large amounts of data, on-premises or in the cloud, and the
easy addition of additional resources for high scalability
Unit redundancy hardens processes in the event of system errors or failures
Modern IT standards and protocols have improved the security, efficiency, and
reliability of cloud-based SCADA systems