Network Documentation is important for operational clarity in organizations managing operational technology (OT) environments. Many OT networks were built piece by piece, which makes it tough to get a clear picture of your network architecture or data flows. It involves a systematic approach to recording the details of network infrastructure, including configurations, connections, and the roles of various components within OT systems such as:
- Industrial Control Systems (ICS)
- Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)
- Industrial IoT systems (IIoT)
- Building Automation Systems
Our service meticulously catalogs every aspect of an organization’s network infrastructure, ensuring a comprehensive understanding that is essential for effective management, resiliency, security, and compliance.
Our Approach
Our approach starts with meeting compliance requirements, but it also aims to greatly improve your operations. This groundwork helps prepare you for future projects by giving you a clear picture of your current network setup.
Creating detailed documentation early on is key to preventing issues that could disrupt operations and trigger excessive alarms from anomaly detection systems, optimizing both cost and efficiency.
What Armexa’s Network Documentation Process Looks Like
Our Network Documentation process involves several critical steps and components that allow for passive information collection, ensuring accuracy without interfering with network operations.
Comprehensive Asset Inventory
struggling with system vulnerabilities and downtime that disrupt production, while managing remote assets without dedicated on-site OT staff.
Software Inventory and Management
Our team compiles a detailed list of all applications installed on network-connected computers, including managing licenses and software versions. This allows organizations to quickly identify if they are affected by software vulnerabilities or compliance issues.
Communication and Data Flow Mapping
We map both approved and unknown communications within and beyond the OT network, including internal data flows and external connections through firewalls. This includes creating a data flow register and workbook, providing clear visibility into data movements within and between security zones.
Physical and Logical Network Diagrams
Our documentation includes both physical and logical network diagrams. These diagrams show how devices are interconnected, including switches, routers, and other network devices, without impacting operations. This method allows for the identification of gaps and provides solutions for enhancing network integrity.
Detailed Control System Equipment Registers
For automation systems, we detail the IP connections from the control system to each physical component, akin to a line diagram in electrical engineering. This shows every IP connection , including those to remote I/O, junction boxes, and terminal instruments, providing a complete picture of the data flow and control logic.
Sanitized Diagrams for Security
struggling with system vulnerabilities and downtime that disrupt production, while managing remote assets without dedicated on-site OT staff.
Commitment to Operational Integrity
This detailed approach ensures that your organization has a precise, actionable understanding of its network infrastructure, facilitating improved security, resiliency, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Armexa is dedicated to delivering this essential service with the accuracy and attention to detail that your operations demand.
Contact us to discuss how we can assist in documenting and securing your OT network infrastructure.
