As our reliance on digital systems grows, so does the risk of cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure such as energy supply, healthcare, transport networks and government departments. These attacks can not only cause economic damage, but also jeopardise public safety and trust in state institutions. There is therefore an urgent need for practical, innovative training methods that prepare IT security experts and operators of critical infrastructure for current and future threat scenarios.
The AIT Cyber Range (www.cyberrange.at) is an innovative simulation environment designed to realistically replicate IT networks in security-critical environments. This system, which has already won several awards, is used worldwide to train personnel in defending against cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure. It enables the provision of bespoke training programmes for operators of critical infrastructure across the globe.
Realistic simulation of safety-critical networks
In this context, the AIT has also been the world’s only “IAEA Collaborating Centre” of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for several years and is responsible for IT security training in the member states. “The AIT’s expertise and state-of-the-art facilities enable high-quality training courses and demonstrations on computer security, which can make a significant contribution to capacity-building as well as to research and development activities”, emphasised Lydie Evrard, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, at the signing of the cooperation agreement. Furthermore, training courses are also organised in collaboration with, amongst others, the World Institute for Nuclear Security (WINS), the Vienna Centre for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP), the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) Ukraine. In Austria, AIT’s clients include Wien-IT and energy network operators such as Verbund, EVN and Salzburg AG. Internationally, training programmes are carried out in many European countries (such as the United Kingdom, Slovenia and Romania), in the Middle East (Oman, United Arab Emirates), in Asia (Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam) and in South America.
Avoiding losses running into millions
In addition, the AIT has successfully established itself as a centre of excellence for the implementation of the Federal Ministry of the Interior’s (BMI) national cyber security simulation exercises, in collaboration with the KSÖ (Centre of Excellence for a Secure Austria), with the aim of enhancing the cyber security capabilities of Austrian operators of critical infrastructure. This makes an important contribution to preventing significant economic and societal damage running into tens of millions.
AIT has thus established itself as an EU-wide cyber security competence centre for professional development for operators of critical infrastructure. The range of services is being continuously developed for further operators of critical infrastructure and companies worldwide.
AIT connects science and innovation
The ability to rapidly translate new findings into marketable technologies and practical solutions is increasingly becoming a key competitive factor for Europe. At this interface between science, technology and application, applied research at the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology plays a central role. Austria’s largest research and technology organisation aligns its research closely with the needs of industry and current societal challenges. AIT’s research makes a difference and creates solutions – for businesses, society and, ultimately, for us all.
AIT Impact Report
The AIT Impact Report 2026 uses around 30 examples to illustrate how AIT, together with partners from industry, academia and the public sector, translates research into concrete solutions. The projects presented range from the digitalisation of industrial processes, through resilient infrastructure and sustainable energy and industrial systems, to health, mobility, security and the circular economy.
The AIT Impact Report 2026 is available online (in German): www.ait.ac.at/impact-report