The Role of Configuration Change Management

Processes play a key role in any security strategy. Keeping track of changes that are made to the OT system is not only critical, but they are required by some industrial standards. If you think Configuration Change Management fits within your solution, you might want to look at Industrial Defender and Tripwire.

Configuration change management is a set of processes created by the user to ensure that changes to the network are known, tested, and documented. Software can also be used to facilitate the process. Change management is a critical aspect of maintaining the security and reliability of OT networks. Because these systems are often critical to the functioning of a business or organization, it is essential to ensure that any changes made to the network are properly planned, tested, and implemented to minimize the risk of disruption or failure.

Benefits

1. Maintaining system integrity: Through managing and controlling changes to the network, it is possible to ensure that the system remains in a known and secure state. This can help to reduce the risk of unauthorized changes or malicious attacks.
2. Improving system availability: By thoroughly testing and validating changes before they are implemented, you can minimize the risk of disruptions or outages that can occur as a result of errors or misconfigurations.
3. Improving system reliability: With accurate records of all changes to the network, you are able to quickly diagnose and troubleshoot problems that may arise. This can help to improve the overall reliability of the system.
4. Compliance: Configuration change management is a requirement for compliance with various standards and regulations that apply to industrial control systems and critical infrastructure, such as NERC CIP, IEC 62443, etc.

Challenges

1. Time: A proper change management program will take time and dedicated resources to implement. This may put it out of reach for smaller companies.
2. Training: Implementing a change management program will require training for all staff on the new system and processes.

Overall, configuration change management is a critical practice that helps to ensure the security, availability, and reliability of operational technology networks. It is an ongoing process that requires routine monitoring, testing, and validation. Change management is also required for regulatory standards such as NERC CIP and IEC 62443.

Other Security Disciplines

Perimeter Firewalls Between IT and OT

Network IDS / Anomaly Detection

Want to learn more? Check out our OT Defense in Depth Cyber Security Buyer’s Guide.