In many government-facing organizations, IT (Information Technology) and OT (Operational Technology) teams operate in silos—each with different priorities, tools, and security models. But as regulations tighten around CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) and CMMC requirements, this divide becomes a compliance risk.
The Compliance Challenge
While IT teams focus on networks, cloud systems, and software, OT environments—like factory controls, manufacturing systems, and SCADA networks—are often overlooked. These systems:
Run on legacy platforms with limited patching options
Are difficult to monitor using traditional IT tools
Can’t be taken offline for updates without halting production
Yet they often interface with IT systems or expose data critical to government contracts, making them a potential weak point.
Why Integration Matters
CMMC, NIST 800-171, and DFARS don’t distinguish between IT and OT when it comes to safeguarding CUI. Contractors must show that all systems touching CUI are protected. That means:
Implementing centralized visibility and access controls
Segmenting networks to isolate critical workloads
Applying consistent policies across IT and OT infrastructure
Bridging these environments is essential—not just for compliance, but for risk management.
Moving Toward a Hardened Architecture
More organizations are adopting secure enclave approaches that combine GCC High environments for IT systems with managed segmentation for OT assets. These solutions provide a unified security posture while respecting the operational needs of OT.
For organizations beginning this journey, GCC High migration services offer a secure foundation to extend protections beyond the traditional office network.
Compliance doesn't stop at the office door. To protect CUI and meet regulatory standards, government contractors must unify IT and OT security strategies—starting with secure, scalable foundations.