SCADA, or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, refers to a category of software systems used to monitor and control industrial processes remotely. These systems collect real-time data from sensors and equipment across facilities such as water treatment plants, power stations, and manufacturing sites. Operators use SCADA to visualize operations, detect issues, and automate responses, improving efficiency and safety. SCADA plays a crucial role in critical infrastructure by enabling centralized oversight and rapid decision-making, but it also requires robust cybersecurity measures to protect against potential threats.