Logistics Solutions

Network monitoring covering all infrastructure components

Managing data workflow for SCM 4.0, IT, and OT networks

To achieve enterprise competitiveness, logistics organizations are on the lookout for new efficient technologies and operational techniques, that involve the implementation of Supply Chain Management 4.0 (SCM) and information technology (IT). SCM 4.0 can be defined as the application of the Internet of Things, the use of advanced automation, and the application of advanced analytics of big data in supply chain management: converging sensors, IT and OT networks, high level of automation and data analysis to significantly improve performance and customer satisfaction.

However, enormous issues are arising when trying to integrate data workflow with SCM 4.0, OT, and IT networks. Connectivity is a double-edged sword, as it opens to vulnerability issues. OT automated equipment and control systems used to be run on closed, proprietary networks. The big advantage of this approach was fewer chances of equipment or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) getting hacked because they were not directly connected to enterprise networks. But now, OT systems are open, exchanging data with enterprise networks and systems, wireless networks, remote sites, and more open Ethernet-based industrial networks. The risk of a breach to enterprise-level data by hackers gaining entrance from a connection at the OT level is therefore very high, especially when there is weak network visibility in this extremely complex environment.

Providing multiple layers of defense is a good recommendation to avoid security vulnerabilities when merging IT and OT networks in an SCM context. For example, by making use of firewalls and gateways to create secure boundaries between OT and IT systems. But is it enough? If one of these layers fails without notification, we are back to step one: cyber threats. The best prevention and defense strategy is to start monitoring deeper, at the network level for the entire data workflow of all infrastructure components.

Some additional challenges associated with monitoring logistics IT and OT network infrastructures are:

 

  • Achieving real-time network monitoring
  • Detecting networking and operational issues before they cause downtime
  • Preventing unplanned downtime due to equipment failure
  • Remote access control
  • Remote troubleshooting (intermittent) issues on hard to reach remote sites
Profitap Logistics Network Solutions

Logistics network monitoring is key to understand what occurs throughout the entire supply chain

An industrial organization with complementary production possibilities at several locations often encounters challenges in the management of their IT and OT networks, that change between the different facilities, leading to a non-transparent, company internal network that incorporates huge inefficiencies. How can companies integrate their internal logistics network? It all starts with gaining full visibility.

Accessing the network traffic

Get a reliable, real-time overview of the network with physical and virtual TAPs placed at strategic points.

Managing & optimizing data flow

Build a visibility architecture with the help of Network Packet Brokers (NPB) to deliver actionable network data to monitoring and security tools.

Data capture and analysis

Leave no blind spots: get dedicated tools that enable monitoring on the spot, but also remotely, as well as back-in-time analysis.

Real-time network monitoring starts with high-quality infrastructures. Discover the Profitap portfolio, or request a quote for customized logistics network monitoring infrastructure solutions.

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