IT/OT security architecture: The invisible bridge between innovation and protection

When progress becomes a target

Cloud infrastructures, networked production systems, AI-supported processes – the digital transformation is rapidly changing business models.

But with every new technology, the attack surface also grows. Current studies show that companies are investing in innovation, but often lack the appropriate security foundation. This is exactly where a modern IT/OT security architecture comes in – as a strategic bridge between technological progress and sustainable protection.

Rethinking security architecture: holistic instead of selective

IT and OT systems are converging – and with them, the challenges. Traditional security approaches fall short when production facilities, cloud services and mobile devices are part of the same network. What is needed is an understanding of architecture that sees security not as an add-on, but as an integral part of every digital environment.

The key principles here are:

• Zero trust: No access without continuous verification – regardless of location or device.
• Security by design and default: Security is considered from the outset – not just after an incident.
• Defence in depth: Multi-layered protection mechanisms that remain effective even if attackers achieve partial success.
• Least privilege: Access only when necessary – and only for as long as necessary.

Recommendations from practice: Architecture as a resilience factor

The results of our meta-study, Security reimagined, clearly show that companies that strategically design their security architecture are not only better equipped to defend against attacks – they also comply with regulatory requirements more efficiently and lay the foundation for digital resilience.

What has proven effective:

Targeted segmentation within integrated IT/OT environments:

• Clear transitions and security zones: Create transparency and reduce risks – without hindering the necessary networking.
• Monitoring and anomaly detection: Centralised systems such as SIEM, XDR, NDR, SOAR or UEBA enable the early detection of security-relevant events and support a fast, automated response – a decisive factor for resilience and responsiveness.
• Use security frameworks: Standards such as ISO/IEC 27001, BSI IT-Grundschutz or NIST CSF provide guidance and auditability when establishing systematic information security management, minimising risk and complying with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Use reference architectures: Standards such as NIST EA Model, Purdue Reference Model, IEC62443, TOGAF/SABSA or reference architectures from cloud providers (e.g. AWS, Google or StackIT) provide guidance for the structured planning, implementation and securing of complex IT and OT infrastructures, as well as for ensuring scalability, interoperability and regulatory compliance.
• Cloud-ready security: Security architectures must secure traditional data centres as well as hybrid and multi-cloud environments – consistently, scalably and adaptable to dynamic infrastructure models.

Implementation: From concept to live architecture

An effective security architecture does not happen overnight – it is the result of a structured process:

• 1. Strategy and architecture development
  Define security goals, analyse existing structures, design and define the target architecture.
• 2. Analysis and evaluation
  Conduct a gap analysis, identify risks, determine the level of maturity and prioritise areas for action.
• 3. Implementation and operation
  Implement protective measures, establish processes and ensure operation.
• 4. Continuous development
  Regularly review the architecture and adapt it to new business strategies, threats and technologies.

Conclusion: Architecture determines security – and future viability

Security architecture is not purely an IT issue – it is a strategic success factor. Thinking about it holistically not only creates protection, but also trust, compliance and innovation. In a world where change is the only constant, a resilient architecture becomes a decisive competitive advantage.