Resilient wireless data communication for critical infrastructure

Computer technology and the proliferation of networks that enabled data exchange between computers gave birth to the Internet and mankind realized the dawn of a new, virtual environment aptly named “cyberspace.” If you think about critical infrastructure, things that come to mind are all of the services and assets that make civilized life possible. The evolution of Smart Grid Technology promises the ability to have real-time access to data. All of this is made possible by automation and data communication systems that enable the integration of critical infrastructure into cyberspace. But as cyberspace evolves, it is becoming more vulnerable to exploitation and attacks. Today, there are Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum technologies that can make communication networks more resilient to potential cyber security threats. This paper will give a background on the risks as well as how to “harden” a wireless communication network in order to protect our critical infrastructure.