Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

Which level of the Purdue Model contains supervisory systems to control physical processes?

1. Level 1

2. Level 2

3. Level 3

4. Level 4

The correct answer is: Level 2

The Purdue Model, often referred to in the context of industrial control systems, consists of various levels that delineate the different aspects of operational technology and information technology within an organization. Level 2 is specifically designed to encompass supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, which are crucial for monitoring and controlling physical processes in real-time. These systems gather data from Level 1, which consists of the actual physical sensors and actuators, and provide operators with oversight, allowing them to manage and optimize production processes effectively. In this context, Level 2 serves not only to oversee the operations occurring on the factory floor but also to provide essential control capabilities over those processes. The supervisory systems at this level ensure that the physical outputs are aligned with the operational goals of the organization, maintaining efficiency, safety, and product quality. This critical role justifies why Level 2 is identified as the level containing these supervisory systems within the Purdue Model.