Field
Actuator / Final Element
The device that acts on the process — valves, dampers, pumps, motors.
High criticalityLevel 0
What it does
Converts control output into physical action.
Typically locatedOn the process.
At a glance
PurdueLevel 0
CategoryField
Protocolshart, foundation-fieldbus, profibus
Talks toController, Positioner, Asset management system
Common vendorsEmerson, Rotork, Flowserve, ABB
Why should I care?
Actuator / Final Element sits at Level 0. Compromise here is not just a data problem — it changes what the physical process does or what operators can see and control.
Common security problems
- Positioner configuration changes
- Manual overrides not tracked
If it is compromised
- Direct physical process consequence
What to monitor
- Position feedback vs command
- Configuration changes
- Override state
How to defend it
- Track overrides formally
- Cross-check command and feedback in monitoring
Related