case study: modernizing scada and cybersecurity for water authority
Delivering a comprehensive assessment to identify gaps, strengthen cybersecurity, and modernize SCADA infrastructure
A large water authority partnered with UTSI to perform a comprehensive assessment of its SCADA systems, cybersecurity posture, and operational workflows in preparation for a system-wide modernization. The engagement focused on identifying gaps, upgrading SCADA and network architecture, enhancing resilience across the utility’s diverse facilities, and developing a robust disaster recovery plan.
Challenge
The client’s existing SCADA infrastructure was outdated, siloed, and lacked standardized operational processes, creating cybersecurity vulnerabilities and inefficiencies. With evolving threats, increasing regulatory expectations, and growing operational demands, they needed to modernize its control systems while ensuring continuity, security, and integration across its facilities.
Solution
UTSI performed a comprehensive assessment of the client’s SCADA and operational environment, organizing findings into three focus areas:
- Architecture – Evaluating the networks, equipment, and software required to deliver a reliable, resilient, and highly available SCADA infrastructure.
- Operations – Reviewing the core features and functions that support safe, efficient performance while enabling the integration of advanced operations and maintenance tools.
- Administration – Examining the processes and procedures essential for maintaining a secure, well-structured, and effectively managed SCADA environment.
The approach included:
- Review of existing SCADA infrastructure across client facilities
- Assessment of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and risk exposure
- Site visits to assess facility conditions and equipment.
- Stakeholder interviews to identify gaps in workflow, data use, and cybersecurity posture.
- Development of a phased modernization roadmap prioritizing:
- Cybersecurity improvements
- Standardized SCADA integration
- Staff training and organizational alignment
- A sustainable, risk-based asset management strategy
Results
UTSI recommended a major upgrade to the client’s SCADA and network infrastructure, including a disaster recovery installation. The project produced a detailed roadmap for phased SCADA and cybersecurity modernization, highlighted critical vulnerabilities, and outlined actionable steps to reduce risk.
- Unify SCADA Systems: Migrate to a standardized, integrated platform
- Improve Cybersecurity: Implement layered defense, monitoring, and response plans
- Modernize Infrastructure: Upgrade obsolete components and communications networks
- Organizational Alignment: Clarify roles, responsibilities, and training requirements
- Phased Implementation Plan: Prioritize projects based on criticality and risk
The findings positioned client to transition from a fragmented, reactive system toward a modern, secure, and proactive operational environment. UTSI’s roadmap serves as a strategic guide for future investment, ensuring improved service reliability, reduced risk, and better alignment with evolving operational and regulatory demands, ultimately positioning client for more resilient, efficient operations with a scalable foundation for future growth.
1 Comment
Appreciate this. I created a site that explains multiple SCADA protocols and includes tools to analyze protocol traffic.