Network Randomization and Dynamic Defense for Critical Infrastructure Systems

Abstract

Critical Infrastructure control systems continue to foster predictable communication paths, static configurations, and unpatched systems that allow easy access to our nation's most critical assets. This makes them attractive targets for cyber intrusion. We seek to address these attack vectors by automatically randomizing network settings, randomizing applications on the end devices themselves, and dynamically defending these systems against active attacks. Applying these protective measures will convert control systems into moving targets that proactively defend themselves against attack. Sandia National Laboratories has led this effort by gathering operational and technical requirements from Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and performing research and development to create a proof-of-concept solution. Our proof-of-concept has been tested in a laboratory environment with over 300 nodes. The vision of this project is to enhance control system security by converting existing control systems into moving targets and building these security measures into future systems while meeting the unique constraints that control systems face.

PV Energy Generation and IoT Power Consumption for Telecom Networks in Remote Areas

“…Motivated by the fact that companies may avoid using wind energy because their turbines involve high upfront capital investment, and that PV source is especially more useful in rural areas where RTNs are built, we propose a BTS to be placed at a remote location without simple access to energy grids [39] (that require about 80% of the total power consumption to provide a network coverage [40]), fed by a MSG. This is provided with key analytics and an in-depth perspective of device power consumption form from smart meters, envisaged to have a user-friendly effect on the general dependability of the MSG and reduce the operational cost [41].…”