April 21, 2025: Operational Technology (OT) encompasses the hardware and software used to detect or cause changes through direct monitoring and control of physical devices, processes, and events. Found primarily in manufacturing, energy, utilities, and transportation sectors, OT systems differ fundamentally from Information Technology (IT), which focuses on data-centric computing and communication.
With the rapid integration of Industrial IoT (IIoT) and digital transformation, OT environments are increasingly interconnected, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. This evolution necessitates modern identity management solutions—enter Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS).
Why Traditional Identity Management Falls Short in OT
Legacy OT systems were designed for stability, long lifecycle performance, and isolation. Cybersecurity was often an afterthought. This has led to challenges such as:
Shared accounts and static credentials.
Poor visibility into who accesses what systems and when.
Difficulty enforcing access policies across diverse vendors, contractors, and remote technicians.
The convergence of IT and OT now demands centralized, flexible, and secure identity solutions—capabilities delivered effectively by IDaaS platforms.
What is IDaaS?
Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS) is a cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) solution that provides centralized user authentication, authorization, and access control across digital ecosystems. It enables organizations to secure access to both on-premises and cloud applications, regardless of location or device.
How IDaaS Differs for IT and OT Systems
| Aspect | IT Systems | OT Systems |
|---|---|---|
| Access Patterns | Predictable office/workforce use | Shift-based, contractor-heavy, ad-hoc access |
| Devices | PCs, mobile phones, cloud platforms | SCADA, PLCs, RTUs, HMI, sensors, gateways |
| Protocols | SAML, OAuth, OpenID Connect | Modbus, DNP3, OPC UA – often non-web protocols |
| Lifespan | Frequent updates and upgrades | Legacy devices in use for decades |
| Authentication Methods | MFA, biometrics, SSO | Often username/password or hardcoded credentials |
Key Takeaway: IDaaS must be adapted to the operational nuances and constraints of OT systems, such as supporting older protocols and environments with limited network access.
Securing Legacy OT Assets with Modern Identity Solutions
Many OT environments still operate on legacy infrastructure that lacks built-in IAM capabilities. Here’s how IDaaS platforms can bridge the gap:
Protocol Translation Gateways: Allow identity policies to be enforced over legacy industrial protocols using gateways that act as intermediaries.
Agentless Deployment: Many IDaaS vendors support agentless approaches that require no changes to end systems.
Directory Synchronization: Modern IDaaS solutions sync with legacy directories (e.g., Active Directory) to extend modern access policies to outdated systems.
Just-In-Time Access: Grant time-limited, purpose-specific access to legacy devices for external vendors and contractors.
Key Capabilities of IDaaS in OT Environments
Single Sign-On (SSO) for OT Operators and Field Workers
SSO enables users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple OT and IT applications. This simplifies access for:
Field technicians accessing HMI terminals.
Operators managing SCADA dashboards.
Engineers logging into asset management systems.
SSO improves productivity, reduces password fatigue, and enhances security by limiting password reuse.
Real-Time Identity Monitoring for OT Users
Modern IDaaS platforms provide real-time visibility into user activity across OT systems. Key capabilities include:
Session tracking across field and control systems.
Alerts on unusual access patterns (e.g., late-night logins, access from unknown devices).
Integration with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools for automated threat detection.
Role-Based Access and Policy Enforcement
Through fine-grained Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), IDaaS ensures users only have access to systems necessary for their specific job role. This helps enforce the Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP).
IDaaS vs PAM (Privileged Access Management) in OT
| Feature | IDaaS | PAM |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | All user identities and authentication | High-privilege accounts and session control |
| Use in OT | Broad user identity lifecycle management | Granular control for admin/operator sessions |
| Implementation | Cloud-native and scalable | Often on-premises, heavier deployment |
| Complementary Nature | Foundational layer for access | Adds security for privileged tasks |
Best Practice: Use IDaaS and PAM together—IDaaS for managing all identities and general access, PAM for elevated sessions like configuration changes on critical control systems.
Best IDaaS Platforms for OT Environments
While many IDaaS platforms are designed with IT in mind, several offer strong support for hybrid IT/OT identity management:
Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD)
- Robust directory sync
- SSO, MFA, conditional access
- Integrates well with Windows-based control systems
Okta
- Vendor-agnostic platform
- Extensive support for field devices and legacy integration
- Strong policy and lifecycle automation
Ping Identity
- Excellent for hybrid IT/OT environments
- Federated identity and real-time monitoring
- Integrates with industrial directories
CyberArk Identity
- Combines IDaaS and PAM capabilities
- Designed for high-security environments
- Strong session monitoring for privileged users
ForgeRock
- Supports edge deployments
- Built-in contextual access decision engine
- Offers IAM tailored to complex industrial ecosystems
Best Practices for IDaaS Implementation in OT
Conduct an Identity Audit: Map all human and machine identities in the OT network.
Segment Networks: Isolate OT from IT and apply identity controls at gateways.
Deploy Incrementally: Start with SSO or MFA on non-critical systems before expanding.
Educate and Train: Ensure operators and contractors understand new access procedures.
Integrate with PAM: Combine IDaaS with Privileged Access Management for comprehensive protection.
Conclusion
As industrial environments evolve, identity becomes a critical control point for cybersecurity. IDaaS enables centralized, cloud-based identity governance for both IT and OT environments, helping organizations:
- Enforce secure access,
- Meet compliance requirements,
- Reduce operational complexity, and
- Respond rapidly to identity threats.
From securing legacy assets to enabling real-time monitoring and SSO for operators, IDaaS is not just an IT tool—it’s a vital pillar of modern OT cybersecurity strategy.
IDaaS consultants play a crucial role in helping industrial organizations securely implement identity solutions tailored for Operational Technology (OT) environments. They assess existing OT networks for identity gaps, design customized architectures that integrate with legacy systems, and ensure compliance with industry regulations like IEC 62443 or NERC CIP. By bridging the gap between outdated control systems and modern cloud-based IDaaS platforms, consultants enable secure access for operators, field workers, and third-party vendors. They also provide hands-on training, streamline user provisioning, and support continuous monitoring—ensuring that organizations maintain strong identity governance while minimizing operational disruption.