Emerson Boosts Critical Infrastructure Security with OPSWAT

Emerson is enhancing the cybersecurity posture of its global power and water sector clients by integrating OPSWAT's specialized operational technology (OT) protection solutions into its flagship Ovation™ Automation Platform. This strategic reseller agreement signifies a deeper commitment to safeguarding essential services against escalating cyber threats.

The collaboration focuses on delivering robust, OT-native patch management capabilities, a critical need for industries where system availability and safety are paramount. By embedding OPSWAT's MetaDefender Endpoint™ and My OPSWAT™ OnPremise Central Manager, Emerson aims to provide its customers with a modernized approach to vulnerability management that accounts for the unique demands of industrial control systems, moving beyond traditional IT-centric security models.

This initiative builds upon an existing relationship between the two companies, extending their partnership beyond the DeltaV™ Automation Platform, where OPSWAT's MetaDefender Kiosk™ and MetaDefender Unidirectional Security Gateway™ are already deployed. The expanded alliance underscores a growing trend in critical infrastructure: the necessity for purpose-built cybersecurity solutions that address the convergence of IT and OT environments, particularly as digital transformation accelerates.

The power and water sectors are increasingly targeted by sophisticated threat actors, including nation-state groups and ransomware operations. Unpatched vulnerabilities represent a significant entry point for these attacks, posing substantial risks to operational continuity and public safety. Emerson's integration of OPSWAT's technology directly addresses this challenge, offering a proactive defense mechanism tailored for the complexities of industrial automation systems, which often feature a mix of legacy and modern equipment.

Robert Yeager, President of Emerson’s power and water solutions business, emphasized the critical distinction between IT and OT security, stating, “Our customers need cybersecurity solutions designed specifically for operational technology—not adapted from IT.” He further highlighted that this collaboration enhances their ability to protect the Ovation Automation Platform with an OT-appropriate patch management strategy, reinforcing their dedication to delivering best-in-class protection for vital infrastructure.

Benny Czarny, Founder and CEO of OPSWAT, noted the expanding attack surface driven by advancements in AI and automation. He stressed that in environments where safety and availability are non-negotiable, cybersecurity must be deterministic and engineered for OT realities. This partnership, according to Czarny, embeds a prevention-first philosophy directly into one of the world's most trusted automation platforms, fortifying the resilience of essential societal systems.

With over 800 global sites already utilizing Emerson's Ovation Automation Platform, this collaboration is set to impact a significant portion of the critical infrastructure market. The move aligns with evolving global regulations and the continuous need for advanced vulnerability response, positioning Emerson as a key provider of comprehensive OT cybersecurity solutions.