IoT and cybersecurity trends in smart manufacturing

The manufacturing sector is undergoing a digital transformation driven by the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT). This shift toward Industry 4.0 utilizes the Internet of Things (IoT) to connect machines, production assets, and supply chains, enabling real-time data collection, predictive maintenance, and improved workflow efficiency.

However, this increased connectivity introduces significant cybersecurity risks. The integration of modern IT infrastructure with legacy OT systems—which often lack built-in security mechanisms—creates new vulnerabilities. The adoption of mobile technologies, such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), further expands the attack surface through wireless communication and cloud integration.

The global IoT in manufacturing market is projected to grow from USD 87.98 billion in 2026 to USD 142.63 billion by 2031, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1%. The Asia Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing market, fueled by 5G deployment and investments in smart factory technologies.