AiVibeOT Network Segmentation
OT network segmentation divides industrial networks into separate zones with tightly controlled traffic between them, limiting how far malware, misconfiguration or an attacker can spread from one part of a plant to another.
OT network segmentation is the division of industrial networks into separate segments, with controlled communication between them, so that a compromise or failure in one area cannot spread freely to others. Segments are typically defined by function, process area, criticality or Purdue level, and are separated physically or logically using VLANs, firewalls, routers with access control lists and, for one-way flows, data diodes. Micro-segmentation applies the same idea to individual devices or small groups.
Many plants grew as flat networks in which any device could reach any controller, which allows malware to spread from an infected laptop or office system across the whole site. Segmentation limits that spread, restricts which systems may talk to controllers and makes abnormal traffic easier to spot. It is a central control in IEC 62443, where it is implemented as zones and conduits, and in NIST SP 800-82.
Effective segmentation starts from an accurate asset inventory and a map of required data flows, because unknown dependencies cause outages when rules are tightened. Rules should deny all traffic by default and allow only specified sources, destinations, protocols and, where supported, industrial protocol functions. Changes need testing during planned windows with operations staff present, and rules must be reviewed regularly to remove temporary exceptions.
Key points
- Replaces flat plant networks with segments separated by firewalls, VLANs or diodes
- Implemented in IEC 62443 through zones and conduits
- Requires an asset inventory and a map of required data flows first
- Rules should deny by default and allow only documented communications
Where AiVibe comes in
In AiVibe's AiAmbA AI Factory, the AiAmbA IoT edge layer keeps writes to machines deny-by-default and AI agents only propose changes that a trained operator confirms. AiVibe's security services include vulnerability assessment and penetration testing, and AiVibe is ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified.
Related terms
- Zones and ConduitsOT & Industrial Cybersecurity
- Purdue ModelOT & Industrial Cybersecurity
- Industrial DMZ (IDMZ)OT & Industrial Cybersecurity
- Industrial FirewallOT & Industrial Cybersecurity
- Deny-by-Default ControlOT & Industrial Cybersecurity
- OT Asset InventoryOT & Industrial Cybersecurity