The importance of software maintenance

Data collection is your first step in strategizing a strong lifecycle management process. This begins with capturing the as-installed control system configuration, including as installed software details via two Next Unit of Computing (NUC) small computers. Then a relatively comprehensive report with lifecycle status and updates requirements is generated after comparing the collected data with the latest software lifecycle database.

The software lifecycle status report enables customers to get a comprehensive overview of required Human Machine Interface (HMI), network hardware and software updates; strategic software deployment plays an important role in ensuring systems are running more efficiently and in alignment with today's standards.

But collecting system data cannot risk security. Therefore, we have engineered our tools to collect data in read-only mode without interfering the normal unit operation and to avoid collecting any personal information. Furthermore, the collected data is encrypted during both transmission and storage. We follow secure-by-design principles, run regular accuracy checks, and use strict authentication processes. The result is a trusted, compliant solution that protects your systems with an aim not to put your data at risk.

Software maintenance is a critical safeguard. Each software update is an opportunity to help improve security, fix known issues, and introduce more useful features. They also improve system compatibility and performance to protect against cyber threats and help ensure compliance with current security regulations. Technology is always evolving and keeping your software current helps maintain system usability, performance, and future readiness.

We introduced the term updates but in the context of software, it’s important to understand the difference between a software update and a software upgrade.

• Updates are routine, quick to install, and offers incremental improvements, typically fixes known issues, enhances security, improves functionality and provides performance tweaks. They typically don’t require downtime or new software licenses.
• Upgrades are less frequent but can be more impactful. They include the introduction of new features with major functionality changes and potentially new interfaces along with requisites for HMI and/or Cyber security system hardware upgrades. Upgrades can also take longer to implement and require new licenses. 

Understanding the distinction helps with planning maintenance windows and managing costs.

GE Vernova offers currently validated software as part of software maintenance service to help maintain performance, security, and cyber compliance. The scope of software maintenance includes of the following but not limited to:

• Operating systems like Windows.
• Antivirus, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) software like McAfee, and network monitoring tool like Nozomi.
• Control and data management software such as Graphics Software, ControlST**, and Historian.
• Backup and disaster recovery solutions such as Acronis and patch management software like Ivanti.
• Firmware updates for network devices such as switches, firewalls and routers.

In case of software and hardware upgrades over a long term, GE Vernova aims to provide the latest validated software and hardware that are functionally equivalent to existing installation. This approach helps ensure that software remains compliant and compatible with evolving regulatory and technical environments.

Your software maintenance is a strategic decision that affects your entire operation—not just IT tasks. With a clear lifecycle management plan and trusted tools in place, you can manage the lifecycle of your system seamlessly, reduce risk, and help meet evolving cybersecurity requirements.