Large-Scale Network Cybersecurity Testing Based on Advanced Multi-Agent System

PI: Wenxin Liu, Lehigh University

Energy industry usually does not allow field test of new cybersecurity algorithms due to concerns on privacy, security, and possible damages. Instead of simply testing such algorithms through software-based simulation, it is desirable to test them with a test-bed that can estimate the algorithms’ real-world performance, such as implementation requirements, response speed, etc. Such experimental studies can well prepare the algorithms for future field test with energy industry.

Developing a capable test-bed for cybersecurity study requires integrating expertise in multiple research areas, such as cybersecurity, power systems, communications, control, etc. Such test-bed is very hard to develop due to the gaps among the research disciplines. We have been working on advanced controls of power systems and power electronics and our lab is already equipped with a real-time simulator and a microgrid test-bed. By fully integrating our existing equipment and expertise, we are able to develop an advanced cybersecurity power system test-bed within a short period of time.

During the project, we had developed an advanced cybersecurity power system test-bed through hardware and software development. The development integrates our expertise in power system modeling and simulation, power hardware-in-the-loop simulation, and advanced programming. The development of the test-bed was performed in steps. Finally, the new cybersecurity algorithms designed by other researchers can be implemented with a multi-agent system and tested through real-time power hardware-in-the-loop simulation.

The project can demonstrate the effectiveness of real-time multi-agent system based experimental platform for testing cybersecurity solutions. The cost-effective test-bed design and high-fidelity test results will benefit both energy industry and cybersecurity vendors.

Skills

Posted on

August 6, 2018

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