Purdue Reference Model

The Purdue Reference Model refers to the organization and structuring of information technology (IT), especially in the context of industrial control systems.

It describes a hierarchical architecture for the integration of IT systems at different levels of an organization. These include the field, control, operational, managerial, and enterprise levels (from the lowest to the highest hierarchical level). Each hierarchical level can further be segmented into different zones or areas.

The advantage is that access to specific systems and data is assigned only to people who need itto reduce the risk of unauthorized access and potential threats.

Controlling data traffic between levels

Firewalls are used as transition points between levels in the Purdue Reference Model to control traffic. IT professionals should ensure that firewalls are configured appropriately and updated regularly.

Access control and authorization management at the various levels are also critical for ensuring that only authorized users can access specific systems and data.

Purdue Reference Model in industrial systems

The Purdue Reference Model is often used in the design and management of industrial control systems (ICS). At the field level, sensors collect data about machines and processes. The data reaches the control level where specialized systems regulate and monitor production. The operational level includes the physical devices, machines and systems in the production process. The management level integrates information from all levels to gain comprehensive insights into the production process and inform strategic decisions.

The biggest workload for IT admins working with the Purdue Reference Model is to implement and manage IT systems at the various hierarchical levels. For example, careful planning, configuration and monitoring with a UEM solution ensures seamless integration and communication between systems at different levels.