A container-based cyber range for teaching cybersecurity in operational technologies and industrial control systems
TL;DR
The approach addresses the need to strengthen practical OT-ICS skills in the face of increasing complexity, ongoing digitalization, and expanding attack surfaces in cyber-physical systems, particularly in the electric and industrial manufacturing sectors.
Abstract
This paper introduces OTLabs, emulated operational technology (OT) and industrial control system (ICS) environments designed to support hands-on industrial cybersecurity training in container-based cyber ranges. The approach addresses the need to strengthen practical OT-ICS skills in the face of increasing complexity, ongoing digitalization, and expanding attack surfaces in cyber-physical systems, particularly in the electric and industrial manufacturing sectors. The paper discusses the typical OTLab architecture, the use of orchestration scripts, and the development methodology, covering both technical and educational aspects. In total, thirteen OTLabs were developed, ranging from introductory OT-ICS asset discovery labs to more advanced scenarios. OTLabs have been integrated into undergraduate courses and training programs, with high student acceptance and engagement.