Case Studies

Factory control systems need to be protected from vulnerabilities that may arise as a result of their increased connectivity and use of widespread information technology. Scalable, multi-level cybersecurity is essential to realize the full potential of knowledge-based smart manufacturing, but the safety-critical and time-sensitive requirements of smart manufacturing control systems make deployment difficult. This project provides the measurement science necessary to develop standards for securing smart manufacturing control systems against cyber attack, and specifies the test methods and metrics to validate that standards have been correctly implemented.

In July 2011, the Pentagon released an unprecedented cybersecurity strategy that formally branded cyberspace as a domain of warfare, akin to land, sea, air and space. But, instead of outlining offensive measures, the framework focuses on how to deter the enemy from ever attempting an attack. As part of this plan, the military is employing "active cyber defense" - an amalgamation of sensors, software and intelligence reports aimed at instantly blocking malicious activity.