A key distinguishing factor between IT (Information Technology) and IACS (Industrial Automation and Control Systems) environments is the **requirement for cybersecurity to consider safety in IACS systems.
From ISA/IEC 62443-1-1, Clause 4.3:
“In contrast to traditional IT environments, where the primary concern is confidentiality, the primary concerns in IACS environments are often availability, integrity, and most critically — safety.”
Any cybersecurity failure in IACS environments can result in physical consequences, such as equipment damage, environmental harm, or loss of human life — making safety a critical consideration.
Incorrect Options:
A. Integrity is important, but availability and safety are usually higher priorities.
B. IT prioritizes confidentiality, not availability.
D. Routers are indeed used in IACS networks, often hardened or industrial-grade.
[References:, ISA/IEC 62443-1-1:2007 – “Terminology, Concepts, and Models”, ISA/IEC 62443 Study Guide, NIST IR 8183 – Cybersecurity Framework Profile for IACS, , , ]
