Cybersecurity Best Practices for Protecting DCS and PLC Systems in 2026
Continual growth of digital technology has resulted in an increase in cyberattacks targeting DCS & PLC instrumentation in NC . The year 2026 has brought about exponential advances towards interconnectivity through remote monitoring, cloud-based automation & "Smart Factor". As such, the potential for a cyber breach that impacts production, safety, or financial loss will continue to grow. In order to remain successful, companies must implement best-practice cybersecurity standards designed explicitly for Operational Technology (OT) environments. Strengthening Network Segmentation and Access Control To ensure proper separation between OT systems & IT systems, all OT systems should be placed on separate VLANs with communication between them restricted to monitored and controlled (VLAN dedicated) channels. The implementation of Zero Trust Access Controls is now critical; all users, devices, and applications must be authenticated before accessing any of the compa...