A Low-Cost In-Line Encryption System for SCADA Applications

Asila Al-Busaidi, Arwa Al-Kindi, Dawood Al-Abri*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Encryption is an essential security mechanism to achieve data confidentiality. However, some organizations may choose not to encrypt their critical traffic due to the high cost or difficulties of setting up an encryption system between the various devices of their networks. This paper presents a system that provides a protected communication between devices with a reasonable cost and an easy-to-use interface. The system can be easily added in-line to communication links to minimize the disturbance to existing infrastructure. The system has a central management unit that is used to configure and update encryption devices that are placed at the endpoints of the communication links that must be secured. Each encryption device is a Linux-based mini-computer that encrypts the traffic sent by the end device and decrypts the incoming traffic. The proposed system had been successfully implemented and extensively tested to ensure that it works correctly.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings - 2021 IEEE 3rd Global Power, Energy and Communication Conference, GPECOM 2021
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages263-268
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9781665435123
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 5 2021
Event3rd IEEE Global Power, Energy and Communication Conference, GPECOM 2021 - Virtual, Online, Turkey
Duration: Oct 5 2021Oct 8 2021

Publication series

NameProceedings - 2021 IEEE 3rd Global Power, Energy and Communication Conference, GPECOM 2021

Conference

Conference3rd IEEE Global Power, Energy and Communication Conference, GPECOM 2021
Country/TerritoryTurkey
CityVirtual, Online
Period10/5/2110/8/21

Keywords

  • SCADA
  • attack
  • confidentiality
  • cybersecurity
  • encryption
  • engineering design
  • system integration

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Networks and Communications
  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Control and Optimization
  • Mechanical Engineering

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