Secure Remote Access Solutions for OT and ICS

This Technical Report examines Secure Remote Access (SRA) solutions specifically designed for Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS). It evaluates various products that facilitate secure remote connectivity while addressing critical aspects such as access control, monitoring, and compliance. The report outlines the necessity of SRA in industrial environments, driven by the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and OT systems, regulatory pressures, and the demand for real-time support. It details how SRA solutions differ from general remote access tools by accommodating legacy hardware and proprietary protocols, emphasizing the importance of policy-enforced access to minimize cyber risks. The report also discusses the distinction between Policy-Based Access Control (PBAC) and Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) within the context of SRA, highlighting the need for strict authentication and comprehensive logging to meet various regulatory requirements. Use cases for SRA include maintenance, emergency support, and diagnostics, all of which require precise access controls to ensure security and operational continuity.