In the near future, mission-critical communications networks belonging to energy utilities, railways, oil and gas pipeline operators, and government authorities will face numerous challenges. Now that many manufacturers have discontinued their SDH components, it is clear that the SDH network lifecycle will come to an end within a few years. Particularly in new applications, operators are increasingly opting for packet-based networks. Many already have an Ethernet/IP-based network in addition to an SDH network. A new addition to network operators' agendas is a series of extensive requirements stemming from German IT legislation that came into force in the summer of 2015. KEYMILE has summarized the main trends in four points.
1. Implementation of IT Security Legislation
Based on new German security legislation that came into effect in July 2015, critical infrastructure operators must protect their networks more effectively from cyberattacks. In other words, their IT security measures must be state-of-the-art. Since there are no specific guidelines on this matter, the details are unclear. In this context, companies are implementing a comprehensive IT security concept that encompasses ensuring network integrity, fault tolerance, and availability. Implementation of requirements such as authentication, authorization, intrusion detection, and, above all, encrypted data transmission is also necessary.
2. Modernizing Existing SDH Networks.
SDH technology has a long and successful track record and is currently used primarily in mission-critical communications networks belonging to railway companies and utilities. Typical applications include connecting axle counters, interconnecting signal boxes, and monitoring lines. If modernization is planned, network operators need to make a significant decision, as continued development and support for their SDH systems are highly unlikely. The first option is migration to Ethernet/IP. Alternatively, operators can choose the second option. This involves using a hybrid multi-service access and transmission platform. From there, operators can offer their SDH services alongside managed packet services from a single system and gradually migrate to Ethernet/IP.
3. Implementing applications with Ethernet/IP networks.
Many railway and utility companies, for example, already use Ethernet/IP for video surveillance, controlling signal boxes, outdoor cabinets, pumping stations, pipelines, or for LAN-to-LAN connectivity. The number of these types of applications will increase considerably over time, especially because they simplify management. Since the new terminal equipment installed in these environments only has Ethernet interfaces, network operators can transmit Ethernet data streams over their SDH networks (Ethernet over SDH, EoS). In this case, the trend toward Ethernet/IP is growing steadily. EoS builds a bridge to transmit data packets over existing SDH networks. As a result, operators of mission-critical communications networks can reliably transmit Ethernet-based services along with SDH-based command and signaling technology.
4. Extensive Automation of Network Monitoring and Control.
One of the long-term goals of network operators is the creation of a standardized, integrated data network, based on Ethernet/IP, for all data communications. This solution eliminates the need to operate parallel networks and create isolated solutions. However, it will take another eight to ten years before this becomes a reality. For now, the focus is on easier and almost fully automated management of large and complex mission-critical communications networks. As network operators deploy an increasing number of applications and devices, and leverage various services provided by other companies, management tools are required that enable a high level of efficiency and automation of management processes.
“For the diverse applications in mission-critical communications networks belonging to railways, energy utilities, oil and gas, as well as local authorities, KEYMILE offers a broad portfolio of solutions that actively support users in migrating from traditional technology to Ethernet/IP. Some organizations have already begun this transformation process, while others are now facing this task because, in the next five years, SDH technologies will reach the end of their lifecycle,” explains Axel Fory, CEO at KEYMILE. “Regarding the migration to packet-switched technologies, companies should be looking at implementing the requirements set by IT legislation. And encrypted data transmission has a key role to play in the process.”
