DTSECOPEN DIGITAL TWIN SECURITY LAB
COMPARISON

Digital Twin vs Simulation

A simulation executes a model; a digital twin maintains a relationship with a real-world counterpart and may contain simulations.

Published
Last reviewed
Evidence
SUPPORTED
Author
Open Digital Twin Security Lab
CONCEPT A

Simulation

Executes a model under selected assumptions, parameters, inputs, and initial conditions.

Security emphasis

Protect scenario integrity, inputs, code, parameters, results, interpretation, and separation from operational authority.

CONCEPT B

Digital twin

Connects digital representation to a counterpart; it may use simulation as one capability.

Security emphasis

Adds ongoing data exchange, identity, synchronization, service, and possible control-loop risks.

Why the distinction matters

Labels do not determine risk. Document actual data flows, synchronization, decision rights, and physical authority. A system marketed as a “twin” may behave like a static model; a system called a “model” may participate in an automated control loop.

PRIMARY SOURCES

References

  1. NIST IR 8356: Security and Trust Considerations for Digital Twin TechnologyNIST · 2025 · Government research publication

    Primary NIST treatment of digital-twin characteristics, cybersecurity, and trust considerations.