TCS+ | Fortinet, and the invisible tech that powers our lives

In this episode of TechCentral’s TCS+, Fortinet’s Matthew Taljaard, subject matter expert in operational technology (OT) for Africa at Fortinet, demystifies OT, explaining what it is, how it differs from IT, the industries it powers, and much more.<br /> Watch or listen to the interview below.<br /> The distinction between OT and IT is often blurry, leading to confusion. OT is the unsung hero of many industries and plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency, safety and reliability. So, what is OT, and how does it differ from IT?<br /> OT encompasses the hardware and software systems responsible for monitoring and controlling physical processes and industrial operations. In essence, OT manages the “things” in the internet of things (IoT). Conversely, IT focuses on processing, storing and transmitting data, predominantly utilising computers, networks and software for decision-making and business processes.<br /> While both IT and OT share similarities such as network connectivity and data exchange, their objectives and priorities diverge. IT prioritises data integrity, confidentiality and availability, while OT emphasises reliability, availability and safety of industrial processes.<br /> The primary goals of OT include:<br /> • Improving operational efficiency through automation, real-time adjustments and equipment health monitoring.<br /> • Enhancing safety by controlling processes to prevent accidents and respond to emergencies.<br /> • Increasing reliability with systems designed for harsh industrial environments.<br /> • Enabling predictive maintenance using sensors and data analytics to anticipate equipment failures.<br /> • Ensuring product or service quality by controlling production parameters to meet predefined standards.<br /> OT drives various industries, including manufacturing, energy, utilities, transportation and healthcare, ensuring efficient and safe operations. For instance, in manufacturing, OT automates production lines to optimise productivity and quality, while in healthcare, it oversees me