OT Patch Management Playbook: Defend Without Disruption

Operational Technology (OT) environments keep critical industries running from manufacturing and energy to utilities and food & beverage. But their long equipment lifecycles and reliance on legacy systems make patch management one of the biggest challenges in OT cybersecurity. Unlike IT, where patches are frequent and expected, OT systems can’t afford downtime leaving security gaps that attackers increasingly exploit.

Drawing on insights from TXOne Networks’ 2024 Annual OT/ICS Cybersecurity Report, this eBook explores how organizations can strengthen their defences even when patches are delayed, difficult, or unavailable.

Discover practical strategies to build a resilient OT security framework, including:

• Implementing phased and tested patch deployments to avoid business disruption
• Leveraging dedicated testing environments to reduce risk before changes go live
• Applying compensating controls, such as micro-segmentation and real-time monitoring, to defend systems during patch delays
• Utilizing virtual patching and dynamic prioritization models to address critical vulnerabilities when patching isn’t immediately possible.
• Working with OT-specific solutions designed with expert knowledge of that environment

Effective OT security is more achievable than it seems. With the right approach, every organization can reduce exposure, modernize protection, and ensure continuous operations no matter how complex the OT landscape.