SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)

What is SCADA

SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is a software-hardware complex designed for automation, monitoring and control of industrial processes in real time. SCADA collects information from sensors, transmits it to controllers (PLCs), displays data on dispatcher screens and archives it for analysis.

SCADA is a key element of automated process control systems (APCS). In Russia, SCADA systems are widely used in energy, oil and gas, housing and communal services, transport and industry. Taking into account the requirements of 187-FZ and import substitution, domestic SCADA solutions included in the Register of Domestic Software are actively developing.

How SCADA works

A SCADA system is built on a three-level architecture:

1. Lower level (field equipment) — sensors, measuring devices, actuators.
2. Middle level (controllers) — programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that collect data from sensors and control equipment.
3. Upper level (servers and dispatching rooms) — SCADA software that aggregates data, forms graphic mnemonic diagrams and allows the operator to make decisions.

SCADA systems integrate with SIEM systems for security and with data storage systems for archiving historical data. Industrial protocols are used for data transfer: Modbus, OPC UA, DNP3, IEC 61850.

Main functions of SCADA

SCADA systems perform the following functions:

• Monitoring — display of process parameters (temperature, pressure, speed) in real time.
• Control — the ability to remotely change setpoints, start or stop units.
• Alerting — automatic tracking of emergency situations and instant notification of personnel.
• Archiving — recording the history of equipment operation and operator actions for subsequent analysis.

The choice of a SCADA system requires a professional assessment of requirements and infrastructure. The design service helps determine the optimal architecture.

SCADA and industrial security

For critical information infrastructure facilities, SCADA systems must comply with strict security requirements. This includes the use of certified CIPF for channel encryption, access control, logging of all actions and integration with intrusion detection systems (IDS/IPS).

Attacks on SCADA systems can lead to production stoppages, accidents and environmental disasters. In Russia, special requirements for SCADA protection at CII facilities apply according to 187-FZ. The attestation service helps check SCADA compliance with regulatory requirements.

Russian SCADA solutions

Domestic SCADA systems are actively developing in Russia. Among the popular solutions: MasterSCADA 4D, KASKAD, Simple-Scada, Alfa Platforma, Rapid SCADA. Most of them are included in the Register of Domestic Software and are used for import substitution at CII facilities.