October 2025

Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing, but with IT/OT convergence comes new cybersecurity risks. Traditional air-gapped networks are no longer immune; attackers are exploiting legacy systems, USB drives, and remote access pathways to infiltrate operational technology.

This expert-driven paper explores the evolving threat landscape and the limitations of air-gapped security. It features real-world ransomware incidents affecting manufacturers like Honda, Bassett Furniture, and Keytronic, and outlines how threat actors bypass outdated defenses.

What’s inside?

• A breakdown of modern OT vulnerabilities and why “air-gapped” doesn’t always mean secure
• Actionable guidance for securing hybrid and fully air-gapped networks
• A look at how ESET MDR and ESET Inspect deliver protection for sensitive environments
• Update strategies for offline devices that align with strict security policies

Whether you're protecting legacy systems or IIoT devices, ESET’s prevention-first approach helps manufacturers reduce risk, maintain uptime, and stay ahead of emerging threats. Download the paper now!