Mining OT networks depend on Modbus TCP, OPC UA, and DNP3 protocols that were designed without cryptographic agility. This workshop maps quantum-era exposure across pit-to-plant control architectures and builds PQC migration plans that account for VSAT backhaul constraints, SIL-rated safety systems, and autonomous equipment fleets.
Technical workshop for OT security leads, plant managers, and IT/OT integration teams in mining, quarrying, and mineral processing. Covers the cryptographic exposure of SCADA, DCS, and PLCs in mining operations, the specific constraints of remote site OT environments (satellite connectivity, limited compute), and PQC migration approaches aligned with IEC 62443 and ISA/IEC security standards for industrial automation.
Mining OT environments present constraints that generic PQC workshops ignore. PLCs running on 256KB flash cannot accommodate the same algorithms as enterprise servers. VSAT backhaul links to remote sites impose bandwidth and latency constraints on key exchange that rule out certain hybrid approaches. Safety-instrumented systems rated to IEC 61511 require firmware signing workflows that cannot tolerate the verification latency of larger post-quantum signatures. This workshop addresses those realities directly: participants map their own control network cryptography against the IEC 62443 zone/conduit model, assess FIPS 203/204/205 algorithm fit for their specific hardware, and leave with a phased migration plan that sequences PQC rollout from historian connections through to autonomous haulage fleet communications.
Full Day Workshop structure with scheduled breaks. Content is configurable to your organisation's technical level and operational environment.
| # | Session | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Quantum Threat Landscape for Mining OT Why SCADA, DCS, and PLC cryptography in mining is uniquely exposed | |
| 2 | Cryptographic Exposure in Mining Control Systems Protocol-level analysis of OT attack surfaces |
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| Break, after 50 min | ||
| 3 | PQC Algorithm Selection for Resource-Constrained OT Matching FIPS 203/204/205 algorithms to mining hardware realities |
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| 4 | Interactive Demonstration Facilitator-led cryptographic audit of a mining OT reference architecture |
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| Break, after 45 min | ||
| 5 | Migration Planning for Mining OT Environments Sequencing PQC rollout across remote and distributed sites |
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| 6 | Q&A and Action Planning | |
Workshops are designed and delivered by QSECDEF in collaboration with sector specialists. All facilitators have direct experience in both quantum technologies and minerals & mining systems.
Workshop design and delivery
QSECDEF brings world-leading expertise in post-quantum cryptography, quantum computing strategy, and defence-grade security assessment. Our advisory membership spans 600+ organisations and 1,200+ professionals working at the intersection of quantum technologies and critical infrastructure security.
Domain expertise and operational validation
Minerals & Mining workshops are co-delivered with sector specialists who bring direct operational experience in minerals & mining organisations. This ensures workshop content is grounded in regulatory, operational, and technical realities specific to the sector.
Sessions are configured around your organisation's technical level, operational environment, and regulatory jurisdiction. Get in touch to discuss requirements and schedule a date.
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