ICS Asset Discovery: Mapping the Invisible Network
For those overseeing industrial control systems (ICS), whether as cybersecurity professionals, IT specialists, or operations managers, securing essential infrastructure can often feel like working in the dark.
Many systems operate silently and unseen, making it difficult to build a complete picture of the environment. Identifying and cataloging every device is more than just a security measure—it’s a crucial step in streamlining operations and reducing risk.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of ICS asset discovery: the challenges it presents, the tools available, practical steps to improve visibility, and what the future holds for this essential aspect of industrial cybersecurity.
The Importance of ICS Asset Discovery
ICS networks are complicated ecosystems, often comprised of outdated systems, proprietary communication protocols, and increasingly networked devices. Despite this complexity, many organizations lack clear visibility into what assets are connected to their infrastructure.
In some cases, teams resort to painstaking manual methods, scanning networks one device at a time. In others, asset discovery is simply overlooked—leaving systems vulnerable to both internal and external threats.
Without proper visibility, ICS networks face three major risks:
- Untracked Devices: Systems not actively monitored can become gateways for malware or unauthorized access.
- Operational Delays: Troubleshooting becomes inefficient when unidentified devices cause interruptions or faults.
- Compliance Challenges: Security standards like NERC CIP and IEC 62443 require accurate asset inventories. Falling short can result in penalties or reputational harm.
A clear understanding of all devices connected to an ICS network is the foundation for any effective cybersecurity strategy.
What Lies Beneath: Unseen Layers of ICS Networks
The term “invisible network” refers to the elements within ICS environments that evade traditional IT oversight. This includes:
- Outdated equipment no longer supported by vendors
- Systems using proprietary or customized communication protocols
- Embedded sensor devices often hidden within machinery
- Unofficial or undocumented devices added without formal approval
Standard IT tools are often unable to detect or interpret data from these systems. This blind spot presents a real concern: even a single overlooked sensor could become an entry point for malicious activity.
Why Conventional IT Tools Don’t Cut It
Tools built for enterprise IT environments aren’t designed for the constraints or conditions found in industrial operations. Consider the following challenges:
- Devices may be installed in remote or rugged environments—such as offshore rigs or factory floors—where traditional monitoring tools are impractical.
- Many facilities have strict limits on downtime, preventing deep scans or manual inspections.
- Communication protocols used in ICS may not be recognized by general-purpose asset discovery tools.
Because of these limitations, industrial-specific solutions are essential to uncover and monitor devices that traditional IT platforms simply miss.
Leading Tools for Industrial Asset Discovery
To close these visibility gaps, many organizations are deploying purpose-built platforms that blend IT and OT visibility. Here are some standout solutions:
- Nozomi Networks Guardian: Offers real-time insight into ICS environments, using machine learning to detect abnormal behaviors and build an asset inventory.
- Claroty CTD (Continuous Threat Detection): Integrates with existing networks to reveal how devices interact and to pinpoint irregular communications.
- Tenable.ot: Provides robust monitoring and vulnerability management tailored to operational environments.
- Valkyrie Automated Security: A newer solution that’s gaining attention, Valkyrie uses a flexible, plugin-based approach to detect both host-based and network-connected assets. It supports real-time threat detection and adapts dynamically to unfamiliar protocols.
What Makes Valkyrie Unique?
Valkyrie stands apart thanks to its dual-layer analysis capability. It not only identifies devices on the network but also inspects host-level data to detect emerging threats. Its advantages include:
- Accurate threat detection, including insider activity and unknown malware
- Reduced downtime through early detection of system vulnerabilities
- Deployment flexibility—whether on the cloud, in virtual environments, or through rugged hardware kits for harsh conditions
- A scalable plugin architecture that evolves alongside your infrastructure
Case in Point: In one recent case, Valkyrie enabled a large industrial organization to identify suspicious network scans that had bypassed every other monitoring tool. Its advanced data correlation pinpointed the behavior to a single application module—demonstrating its depth and precision in real-world scenarios. Read more here.
Broader Benefits of Asset Visibility
Once an accurate inventory is established, organizations unlock a range of operational and security advantages:
- Improved Resilience: Understanding what each device does accelerates recovery after outages or breaches.
- Sharper Threat Analysis: Complete visibility leads to fewer false positives and quicker identification of genuine threats.
- Simplified Compliance: Up-to-date inventories streamline audits and support regulatory alignment.
- Cost Efficiency: Avoiding unnecessary duplication and improving maintenance practices can lead to substantial savings.
Sustaining Visibility: Best Practices
To maintain a clear picture of your ICS network, consider the following strategies:
- Automate Whenever Possible: Reduce manual workloads and improve accuracy by leveraging automated discovery tools.
- Assess Risk Proactively: Focus your attention on the most critical or exposed systems first.
- Integrate with Security Operations: Align asset discovery with broader security frameworks and SOC workflows.
- Keep Tools Up-to-Date: Regularly refresh your systems to recognize new protocols and devices.
- Invest in Training: Ensure teams understand how to use new tools effectively and interpret the data they provide.
Looking Ahead: The Future of ICS Asset Discovery
Emerging technologies promise to make asset discovery smarter and more responsive:
- AI-Driven Insights: Machine learning can help spot anomalies in even the most nonstandard devices.
- Edge-Based Monitoring: Lightweight edge devices will enable local discovery and analysis at remote sites.
- Expanding Protocol Support: Adaptive platforms will continue to expand their libraries, improving coverage for niche and proprietary systems.
Final Thoughts
Asset discovery within ICS networks is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s a non-negotiable requirement for modern industrial cybersecurity. By making the invisible visible, organizations position themselves to respond faster, operate more efficiently, and stay compliant.
If you’re looking for a flexible, next-generation solution, Valkyrie Automated Security offers a promising path forward. Its real-time adaptability and deep insights can help reveal vulnerabilities other tools miss.
Ready to take the first step toward complete visibility? Explore what Valkyrie can do for your operation—request a demo today.
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