IN A strategic move that promises to enhance the security of operational technology (OT) environments globally, Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world’s foremost leader in industrial automation and digital transformation, has announced its partnership with Fortinet, a global cybersecurity powerhouse. This collaboration sees Fortinet becoming a Gold Technology Partner within the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork.
The convergence of advanced networking and cybersecurity capabilities is set to empower both companies to offer robust cybersecurity protection to a wide-ranging customer base. In the realm of OT, where the demands and risks differ from traditional information technology (IT) environments, tailored security solutions are paramount. This partnership leverages Fortinet’s extensive experience in securing OT environments, enabling organizations to safeguard, consolidate, and scale their security infrastructure.
Historically, OT entities have relied heavily on “air gapping” as a fundamental security measure. This practice, which isolated OT networks from IT networks, aimed to minimize the exposure of industrial control systems (ICS) to cyber threats. However, the boundaries between OT and IT networks are rapidly blurring in today’s digital landscape. As a leading OT security solutions provider, Fortinet is positioned to help Rockwell Automation provide robust support to its continually evolving global customer base.
Dan DeYoung, Vice President of Product Management at Rockwell Automation, emphasizes the importance of secure digital transformation, stating, “More Rockwell customers are exploring opportunities to generate new revenue streams through connected products or services. However, these initiatives must be underpinned by robust security, and they are turning to Fortinet’s products to help them achieve their objectives. Our customers seek to streamline operations with integrated security solutions designed specifically for OT environments. Partnering with Fortinet affords them the security efficacy and reliability they require.”
John Maddison, Executive Vice President of Products and Chief Marketing Officer at Fortinet, points out, “The convergence of OT and IT is an ongoing trend, and its implications for manufacturing cybersecurity are significant. The collaboration between Fortinet and Rockwell Automation is designed to assist customers in navigating their digital transformation journey securely. Our partnership with Rockwell aims to bolster the security of connected organizations by reducing their exposure to cyber threats and simplifying the oversight and management of their security infrastructure.”
A recent report by Fortinet, “The State of Operational Technology and Cybersecurity 2022,” sheds light on the cybersecurity landscape in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. The study found that 99% of respondents in APAC experienced at least one security intrusion in the past 12 months, with more than half reporting at least three intrusions. The top three intrusion types in APAC were malware (45%), phishing emails (44%), and hackers (38%). These intrusions had far-reaching consequences, with 50% of APAC organizations suffering operational outages impacting productivity, and more than one-third experiencing disruptions to revenue, data loss, brand value, and even threats to physical safety.
The partnership between Rockwell Automation and Fortinet underscores a collective commitment to fortify the security of OT environments in an era of increasing digital connectivity and the blurring of traditional boundaries between IT and OT. By combining their expertise and capabilities, these industry leaders aim to empower organizations to navigate the challenges of digital transformation while safeguarding their vital operational technology.
