Page 37 - Cyber Warnings

Securely Separating from Public Threats

Creating an added layer of security at all control points throughout the grid is one of the most
critical benefits of a private wireless data network. The recent hijacking of the Ukrainian power
grid and the DDoS attack on Dyn servers clearly illustrates the threat to operational reliability
posed by public networks for grid management.

A private network provides complete separation from the public networks, both virtually and
physically with a distinct air-gap, allowing for non-routable IP addressing with closed loop
monitoring and control. In addition, the utility is able to maintain control over system up-
time, mean time to repair (MTR) and an awareness and control over who and what is
allowed access to the network.

Private wireless networks and software defined radio technologies have made grid automation a
reality without compromising on security or network speed. Private networks are providing better
control over the grid and better monitoring of the use of existing energy resources and new
distributed energy resources, both of which are changing our grid structure significantly.

Forward looking utilities have already started to adopt these new and innovative
communications technologies to proactively meet current and future security and latency
demands resulting from the grid’s shift to automation for renewables, and to bring our power-
grid into a new era of energy control.

About The Author

Stewart Kantor is the CEO and a co-founder of Full Spectrum Inc, a
wireless telecommunications company that designs, develops and
manufactures FullMAX, its private broadband wireless internet technology
for mission critical industries.

He has more than 20 years of experience in the wireless industry
including senior level positions in marketing, finance and product
development at AT&T Wireless, BellSouth International and Nokia Siemens Networks.

Since 2004, Mr. Kantor has focused exclusively on the development of private wireless data
network technology for mission critical industries including electric utilities, oil & gas companies
and the transportation industries. Stewart can be reached online at
[email protected], @Full_Spec_Net and at our company website
www.fullspectrumnet.com.

37 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine November 2016 Edition
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