What Is A SCADA System and Why Does It Matter?

SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems are essential for remotely monitoring and controlling industrial operations across sectors like energy, utilities, transportation, and manufacturing. These systems collect real-time data from sensors and devices, enabling centralized decision-making and automated responses to process variables. SCADA is used to oversee critical infrastructure such as electrical grids, water treatment plants, oil pipelines, and railway control systems.

Due to their central role in managing essential services, SCADA systems are frequent targets of cyberattacks and insider threats. Unauthorized access or tampering with SCADA workstations can lead to widespread service disruptions, safety hazards, or financial loss. To protect these environments, it is crucial to implement strong access control mechanisms that ensure only verified users can interact with control terminals.

How GateKeeper Proximity Enhances SCADA Security

GateKeeper Proximity strengthens SCADA system security by eliminating the use of shared or static credentials and replacing them with proximity-based, identity-linked authentication. Operators carry a secure token—either as a hardware key, smartphone, or NFC badge—which grants them access to SCADA terminals as they approach and locks the session automatically when they step away. This ensures that unattended workstations are never left open to unauthorized access.

GateKeeper supports flexible authentication modes, including multi-factor authentication (token + PIN) or single-factor tap-to-login, which can be tailored to risk levels and compliance requirements. Through the GateKeeper Hub, administrators can view detailed logs of every authentication event and session duration, offering full visibility into who accessed what and when. This not only supports compliance with standards such as HIPAA and NIST, but also reduces operational friction by removing manual logins. In environments where uptime, safety, and accountability are paramount, GateKeeper provides a seamless way to protect SCADA infrastructure.