CASE STUDY

Transforming Industrial Networks with the Power of SCADA Virtualisation

Discover the Future: Streamlining Processes, Enhancing Visibility, and Maximising Efficiency

Join us for a 4-day all-inclusive journey across California's most beautiful beaches

Prefer a PDF?

We created this case study as a web page for better mobile optimisation and accessibility. If you'd still like a PDF version of this use case, you can download it here:

As companies expand their industrial networks, they are always looking for innovative ways to cut costs and streamline their operations. One exciting avenue they are exploring involves the virtualisation of network environments. This approach holds a lot of promise as it can help reduce the need for costly hardware and infrastructure while improving the integration of SCADA software into existing virtualised IT infrastructure.

However, this approach is not without its unique challenges. One of the biggest challenges is monitoring and analysing real-time data from virtualised SCADA networks and ensuring 100% visibility of the virtualised SCADA network traffic. But with the right tools and expertise, these challenges can be overcome, and organisations can reap the benefits of virtualisation while enhancing their network security and performance.

THE CHALLENGE

The increasing hardware and software infrastructure complexity is causing several challenges in network designs. With multiple servers handling tasks such as Manufacturing Execution System (MES) data, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and SCADA platform, the IT infrastructure is becoming more intricate. The integration also involves servers like WSUS, Domain Controller (DC), and Active Directory (AD), each running different operating systems. MES runs on Windows Server 2003, ERP runs on Windows Server 2008, and the SCADA solution runs on Linux.

However, having such a complex infrastructure poses a significant risk, especially in the case of server failure. A power supply or CPU failure on one server could trigger a cascading effect, leading to the failure of other applications, data loss, and, ultimately, the entire IT infrastructure's functionality. This could cause significant business setbacks, leading to wasted time and resources.

Therefore, companies must take appropriate measures to prevent such scenarios and minimize the risks associated with hardware and software infrastructure complexity. By doing so, they can.

THE GOAL

In the world of industrial automation, having access to real-time data is critical. SCADA Virtualisation offers a solution by consolidating all servers and applications onto a single physical server through a virtual environment. To ensure network continuity and process availability while enhancing plant efficiency and reducing network complexity, a comprehensive network virtualisation strategy is essential. This strategy includes elements such as network visibility, infrastructure, redundancy, and disaster recovery.

Network visibility is a vital component of a successful network virtualisation strategy. For optimised security and performance, it is essential to have complete visibility into network traffic in both virtual and physical environments. Achieving this visibility starts with the packet. By implementing a network visibility fabric that includes network TAPs and packet brokers, complete network visibility and link optimisation can be achieved. This will reduce network complexity, enable smoother infrastructure upgrades, facilitate traffic growth, and improve the effectiveness of SCADA tool performance.

THE SOLUTION

Migrating a utility substation design to a virtualised SCADA deployment can provide a variety of advantages, such as consolidating hardware servers, offering high availability, providing migration capabilities, and simplifying backup and restore processes. Nevertheless, the virtualisation of a SCADA deployment comes with several challenges, including the need to reconfigure resource allocation, potential conflicts with network operating system activities, and reduced visibility into the substation's operations.

Virtualised SCADA Substation Deployment

SCADA Virtualization3

Experience an unparalleled leap in SCADA substation technology with the integration of Garland Prisms traffic mirroring. When paired with substation server hypervisors, not only is the notorious data blind spot a thing of the past, but the SCADA platform and all connected systems gain unprecedented access and visibility. Imagine a world where your virtual packet traffic is effortlessly blended with physical layer network TAPs and packet brokers – offering you a seamless, complete end-to-end visibility fabric.

Why Choose Garland Prisms for Your SCADA Deployment?

  • Versatility at Its Best: Whether you're working in public or private cloud environments, a single sensor suffices.
  • Uncompromised Security: Specially designed for air-gapped architectures, Garland Prisms offers a dedicated private controller to bolster your system's defences.
  • Universal Platform Support: From containers to Linux, from Windows Server to other platforms, adaptability is our promise.
  • Advanced Encryption: TLS decryption isn't just a feature; it's a guarantee. With support for 1.3 and its predecessors, you're assured of top-tier encryption.
  • Harmonious Integration: Why juggle multiple solutions when Garland offers a one-stop solution? Seamlessly integrate with Garland's renowned physical network TAPs and packet brokers, simplifying network management like never before.

Discover the future of SCADA substation deployment today. Experience complete end-to-end visibility, fortified security, and unmatched versatility with Garland Prisms. Transform your network management and embrace the next level of operational efficiency.

Substation Firewall Optimisation

Optimising substation firewalls is a common challenge in utilities. However, updates can cause operational blind spots and delays. The solution to this problem is an external Bypass TAP. It allows for inline lifecycle management and sandbox firewall deployments, making it easier to transition to out-of-band for updates, patch installations, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Firewall Optimization3

By doing this, it optimises and validates processes before seamlessly integrating back in line while maintaining network availability. Plus, the bypass TAP and firewall can be remotely managed, automating the workflow and saving time and effort. Ultimately, this results in a more secure and reliable substation that can operate with confidence.

Here are some key benefits to consider:

  • Scripting Support & Cloud Orchestration: Adapt to evolving needs with versatile scripting and cloud orchestration capabilities.
  • Uninterrupted Control Center Visibility: Sustain a comprehensive overview of control centre activities, even during system updates.
  • Remote Accessibility: Manage operations from anywhere, ensuring convenience and timely interventions.
  • Failover on Power Loss: Secure, uninterrupted operations with automatic failover mechanisms.
  • Simplified Configuration: Experience the ease of setup, making the optimisation process seamless.
As industries evolve, the virtualisation of SCADA environments is becoming more popular to reduce costs. Garland Prism is a leader in cloud visibility solutions, providing a versatile and feature-rich cloud traffic mirror for unparalleled visibility into encrypted virtual traffic. With Garland Prism's cloud visibility, your company can confidently streamline its infrastructure and reduce facilitation costs, paving the way for a more innovative and efficient future.

IT'S EASY TO GET STARTED

Hennsol_Illustrations_1
Call or email to schedule a meeting
Hennsol_Illustrations_2
Collaboratively prepare implementation plan, solution, and topology design
Hennsol_Illustrations_3
Enjoy the peace of mind knowing you are using the best technology and security available

Join us for a brief network Design-IT Demo or consultation. No obligation - it’s what we love to do.