Industrial Automation and Control Systems are the hardware, software, networks, and controllers that monitor and run industrial processes such as manufacturing lines, utilities, pipelines, and building operations. IACS typically includes PLCs, SCADA systems, sensors, actuators, historians, and engineering workstations that must operate continuously and safely.
IACS matters in cyber security because these environments control real-world physical processes. An attack can stop production, corrupt data, change setpoints, or create unsafe conditions. Defenders use segmentation, least privilege, asset inventory, and secure remote access to reduce risk, while standards such as ISA/IEC 62443 help define security requirements across the system lifecycle. In real incidents, attackers often target weak credentials, exposed remote services, or unpatched devices to move from IT networks into operational technology.