CyberTRIZPEDIA

Legacy Systems vs Cybersecurity

Isolate legacy OT assets behind secure conduits and apply virtual patching to meet IEC 62443 risk-reduction requirements pending a funded modernisation programme.

CyberTRIZ analysis · Seveso contradiction CY007 · one of 8,235 worked contradictions published by CyberTRIZ.AI

Regulations

Business Context

Many industrial facilities continue operating legacy controllers and

operating systems because they remain reliable and support critical

production processes.

The Contradiction

Long equipment life maximizes operational value.

Modern cybersecurity requires supported and secure platforms.

Why It Exists

Legacy systems often cannot support current security updates or

authentication mechanisms while remaining essential for production.

Direction

Protect legacy assets through network isolation, application

whitelisting, virtual patching, and phased modernization programs.

TRIZ principles applied

P15 DynamicsP01 SegmentationP40 Composite MaterialsP10 Prior ActionP11 Beforehand Cushioning