Which option is the primary purpose for the use of the Purdue Model for Control Hierarchy in designing converged industrial solutions?

Question

Options

• AMap the seven-Layer Open Systems Interconnection model to the industrial environment.
• BProvide a framework for the introduction of new technologies into the industrial environment.
• CSegment devices and equipment into hierarchical functions.
• DProvide a logical separation of devices for security purposes.
• EArrange all industrial devices into a hierarchy of importance.

• B
  4% (1)
• C
  92% (24)
• E
  4% (1)

Explanation

C is correct because the Purdue Model (also called the Purdue Enterprise Reference Architecture, or PERA) was specifically designed to organize industrial control system (ICS) components into distinct hierarchical layers based on their function - from field devices at Level 0 up through enterprise systems at Level 5, giving engineers a structured way to understand where each device or system belongs.

Why the distractors are wrong:

• A - The OSI model is a networking model; the Purdue Model predates and is independent of it, though they are sometimes mapped together secondarily.
• B - Introducing new technology is not its purpose; it's a descriptive/organizational framework, not a change-management methodology.
• D - Logical security separation is a benefit sometimes derived from the model (especially in ICS security frameworks like IEC 62443), but it is not the primary purpose.
• E - The hierarchy is based on function (sensing, controlling, supervising, managing), not "importance" - a field sensor and an enterprise server are both essential.

Memory tip: Think of Purdue as a building blueprint - it tells you which floor (function) each piece of equipment lives on, not how secure it is or how important it is.

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