Industrial Control Systems
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are integrated hardware and software platforms used to monitor, control, and automate industrial processes in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and utilities. They encompass technologies such as SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and DCS (Distributed Control Systems) to manage physical operations in real-time. ICS are critical for ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability in industrial environments.
Developers should learn ICS when working in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, or power generation, where automation and control of physical processes are essential. It's crucial for roles involving operational technology (OT), cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, or integrating IT systems with industrial equipment. Use cases include designing control logic for machinery, implementing data acquisition systems, or securing industrial networks against cyber threats.