Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS)

Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) have become a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, evolving over decades from mechanical relay-based controls to highly sophisticated digital environments. These systems are designed to automate and control industrial processes across sectors such as energy, chemicals, automotive, and food production. At their core, IACS integrate sensors, actuators, and controllers that collect and process real-time data to regulate machinery and optimize performance. Communication networks tie these components together, ensuring that information flows reliably across complex production environments, from factory floors to remote monitoring sites.

Historically, IACS emerged from the convergence of industrial engineering and digital computing, shifting factories from manual operation to automated precision. They serve organizations of all sizes, but are particularly vital in industries where efficiency, safety, and consistency are paramount. These systems are not just about productivity — they are embedded into the compliance and regulatory fabric of manufacturing, enabling organizations to meet stringent requirements for safety, quality assurance, and environmental impact. By providing structure around how machinery is monitored and controlled, IACS make it possible for manufacturers to reduce human error, ensure operational continuity, and respond quickly to emerging challenges.

Cybersecurity has become an essential component of IACS, as industrial systems are now deeply connected through digital networks. Protecting these environments requires alignment with global standards and frameworks, such as ISA/IEC 62443 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework, which outline controls for risk management, authentication, system integrity, and incident response. Since IACS often serve as the backbone of critical infrastructure, they must be safeguarded not only against equipment failures but also against cyberattacks that could disrupt production or endanger safety. This tri-fold responsibility — ensuring regulatory compliance while protecting employees and sensitive industrial assets — makes the secure operation of IACS central to modern industrial success.

Imprivata helps manufacturers strengthen the foundation of their Industrial Automation and Control Systems by securing access to critical systems and workflows. With solutions that streamline authentication, enforce user accountability, and support compliance with manufacturing cybersecurity standards, Imprivata provides a secure layer of control without slowing down operations. By integrating identity and access management across IACS environments, manufacturers gain both protection against threats and confidence that only authorized personnel can access or influence their automation systems. This balance of security and usability supports the reliability, efficiency, and trustworthiness of industrial operations.