Fortinet Operational Technology (OT) Security Specialists | Vaal Triangle

Preferred partner and approved distributor of Fortinet OT/IT segmentation and segregation security solutions

Staro Process Control (Pty) Ltd. stands at the forefront of Industrial Automation in the Vaal Triangle, proudly serving the Mining and Heavy Industrial sectors since 1996. As the preferred partner and approved distributor of Fortinet OT/IT segmentation and segregation security solutions, we empower Vaal Trinagle businesses with robust cybersecurity tailored for converged IT-OT networks. Our expertise—firmly rooted in our long-standing heritage in automation and a dynamic group structure covering supply chain, engineering & design, manufacturing, and construction services—ensures that we deliver comprehensive, state-of-the-art security solutions that protect critical infrastructure and industrial operations.

OT Security and Its Importance

What is Operational Technology (OT)?
Operational Technology (OT) refers to the hardware and software designed to oversee and regulate physical processes, devices, and infrastructure. Widely used in asset-heavy industries such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and utilities, OT systems include Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and Distributed Control Systems (DCS). These technologies play a crucial role in monitoring critical infrastructure, managing industrial automation, and controlling IIoT devices like sensors, actuators, and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).

Defining OT Security
OT Security involves safeguarding people, assets, and critical information by actively monitoring and managing physical devices, processes, and events. As IT and OT networks become increasingly intertwined through digital transformation, relying on traditional point solutions often results in fragmented security. At Staro Process Control, we implement Fortinet’s integrated Security Fabric approach, providing a seamless and unified security strategy. This includes next-generation firewalls (NGFWs), security information and event management (SIEM) systems, identity access management, and more. By addressing the distinct vulnerabilities that arise when once-isolated OT systems connect with IT networks, our solutions ensure robust, end-to-end protection.

Challenges with IT and OT Convergence
Traditionally, OT systems operated in isolation, making them inherently secure. However, digital transformation and remote access have introduced new cyber risks, exposing these systems to modern threats. The longstanding division between the COO’s OT network and the CIO’s IT network has often resulted in redundant efforts and security blind spots, increasing vulnerabilities. At Staro Process Control, we bridge this gap by implementing Fortinet’s Security Fabric, seamlessly integrating IT and OT security. This approach delivers complete visibility, stronger threat detection, and a rapid response framework to protect the entire network.

Main Components of Operational Technology

Industrial Control Systems (ICS):
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) consist of the devices and networks that regulate industrial operations, including SCADA and DCS systems. SCADA gathers data from distributed sensors and relays it to centralized management platforms, enabling real-time monitoring and control. Meanwhile, DCS systems oversee local controllers within production facilities, ensuring seamless and efficient operation of critical processes.

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Devices:
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices may be small, but they play a crucial role in OT environments. These devices include sensors, monitors, actuators, and controllers, all essential for optimizing industrial operations. Deployed on or near OT equipment—such as generators, pipelines, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industrial robots—they enhance automation, efficiency, and real-time monitoring.

IT vs. OT:
Differentiating between IT and OT is crucial—IT focuses on managing data while ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability, whereas OT is responsible for controlling physical processes. As digital innovation drives IT and OT closer together, organizations must adopt new security strategies that safeguard both data and operational environments.

The Importance of Effective OT Security

The Stakes Are High
Weak OT security can have severe consequences, from disruptions in essential services like water treatment and traffic management to serious industrial accidents. Fortinet’s OT security approach proactively mitigates these risks with integrated protection that reduces the attack surface, limits lateral movement, and swiftly contains potential threats.

Building a Resilient Security Fabric
Fortinet’s Security Fabric brings together a suite of security technologies to deliver:

• Visibility: Comprehensive monitoring of every device on the IT-OT network ensures that all assets are accounted for, and any deviations from normal behavior are quickly flagged.
• Control: Advanced policies, including network segmentation and multifactor authentication, guarantee that only authorized users can access critical systems.
• Continuous Monitoring: Real-time traffic analysis and behavioral analytics provide ongoing insights, enabling rapid response and continuous improvement in security posture.

As a trusted advisor and supplier, Staro Process Control leverages these capabilities to provide security solutions that safeguard both critical data and the integrity of physical operations.

Network Segmentation and Its Role in OT Security

What is Network Segmentation?
Network segmentation divides a large network into smaller, isolated subnets, providing enhanced control over data traffic and limiting the spread of potential attacks. This strategy is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information such as customer data, financial records, and intellectual property.

Segmentation vs. Microsegmentation vs. Intent-Based Segmentation:

• Traditional Segmentation: Uses physical or logical divisions (such as VLANs and access control lists) to isolate network traffic.
• Microsegmentation: Applies granular security policies to individual workloads, minimizing risk by creating multiple, isolated zones within the network.
• Intent-Based Segmentation: Integrates traditional segmentation with zero-trust principles, dynamically managing access based on real-time risk and trust assessments.

When implemented with Fortinet’s advanced FortiGate NGFWs, these segmentation strategies ensure that any potential breach is contained, keeping critical systems isolated from unauthorized access.

Staro Process Control: Fortinet Products & Services 

Integrated OT/IT Security Solutions
Staro Process Control provides a comprehensive range of Fortinet products and services, specifically designed for the Vaal Triangle market. Our solutions include:

• FortiGate Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs): Ruggedized and designed for harsh industrial environments, FortiGate NGFWs provide advanced threat protection and network segmentation.
• Security Fabric Integration: Seamless integration across IT and OT networks to deliver shared threat intelligence and automated incident response.
• OT Security Assessments: Comprehensive evaluations that map your OT security posture against the six pillars of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF 2.0), identifying gaps and opportunities for enhanced protection.
• Customized Deployment and Support: With a focus on the mining, heavy industrial, and automation sectors, our experienced team offers end-to-end support—from design and implementation to ongoing management and compliance.

Why Choose Fortinet for OT Security?
Fortinet is the sole provider of a fully integrated security fabric that addresses the unique needs of converged IT-OT environments. With a strong history of safeguarding critical infrastructure and industrial operations, Fortinet’s solutions are built to endure harsh operational conditions while ensuring high performance and advanced threat detection.

Network Segmentation Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by network segmentation?
Network segmentation breaks a network into smaller segments or subnets, allowing for better traffic management and enhanced security by isolating critical systems from potential threats.

What are the three main benefits of network segmentation?

1. Enhanced Security: Limits the spread of malware and restricts unauthorized access.
2. Improved Performance: Reduces congestion and optimizes network performance.
3. Simplified Monitoring and Response: Facilitates quicker detection of anomalies and streamlines incident response efforts.

Your Trusted Partner in OT Security: Staro Process Control

At Staro Process Control, we are driven by our passion to be your trusted advisor and dependable supplier of Industrial Automation solutions. With extensive experience in the mining and heavy industrial sectors, and as Fortinet Operational Technology (OT) Security Specialists in South Africa, we are well-equipped to deliver top-tier OT security solutions that protect your critical assets and processes. Our dedication to ethical business practices, safety, quality, and sustainability ensures we provide unmatched service and support.

Whether you’re looking to secure an industrial control system, implement advanced network segmentation, or integrate IT and OT security strategies, Staro Process Control is here to partner with you in creating a safer, more secure operational environment.

Fortinet Operational Technology (OT) Security Specialists | South Africa
Staro Process Control (Pty) Ltd. is committed to providing innovative Fortinet security solutions that empower businesses across the Vaal Triangle. By adopting our integrated security approach, you ensure your organization benefits from advanced technology, robust network segmentation, and comprehensive OT security—tailored to meet the unique challenges of the Vaal Triangle and South Africa’s industrial environments..

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