Resilient OT Networks: A Foundation for Faster Storm Recovery

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When a major storm hits, operational technology or OT networks – the communications and control systems that connect substations, sensors, and field crews – are essential for restoring service while working with damaged infrastructure, limited access, and rapidly changing conditions.  Simply put, these networks help utilities maintain visibility and control when they need them most.

For today’s post, I thought I would summarize some best practices for building resilient OT networks.

Optimizing OT Networks

If we’re going to talk about OT networks, although you’re probably not going to be building anything from scratch, it’s still helpful to start at the beginning.  Thoughtful design from the get-go is critical.

Generally speaking, OT systems should be separate from corporate IT networks and should have their operational environments divided into secure zones to limit the potential spread of malware or equipment failures.  Other key features include redundant communication paths (e.g., fiber, licensed radio, and cellular links) to reduce dependence on any single connection, backup power for network equipment, and geographically diverse control and data facilities.

Utilities should also plan for networks to operate in less-than-ideal conditions, for example:

• Install local control capabilities to allow substations or distributed equipment to operate safely when central communications are interrupted.
• Develop clear failover procedures and current network documentation help staff restore service without improvising under pressure.
• Implement monitoring tools to flag unusual activity or failing links early.
• Ensure strong access controls and practiced incident-response plans to protect systems from cyber threats.

These investments directly improve storm restoration.  Reliable telemetry gives operators a clearer picture of outages, equipment status, and restoration progress.  That visibility helps crews prioritize repairs based on safety, critical facilities, and the number of customers affected.

Just as important, when operators can trust the data and maintain safe control of equipment, they can isolate damage, reroute power, and bring customers back online more efficiently. Recovery still depends on people, materials, and physical access, but dependable communications make every decision and deployment better informed.

There’s little doubt, optimized OT networks are the backbone of effective emergency preparedness.