In this proposal, Shadowband Systems, Inc. and the ACSEL & OCLNB laboratories of the Oklahoma State University have combined forces to propose an investigation and initial stage development of advanced security systems and protocols to enable extremely secure high-performance wireless and wired local are network (LAN) data communications. The developed security systems and protocols will enable high performance wireless sensors, computers, devices and applications on shipboards to communicate securely. This feasibility investigation will involve prototype development and testing of the security systems and protocols. Some of the key areas of investigation are listed in the following: wireless LAN (WLAN) technology (IEEE 802.11 g/a/b, Bluetooth, etc.), piconet management mechanisms and user applications, channel bonding technologies for higher data rates in WLAN devices, power optimization for wireless systems, RF propagation characteristics, smart antenna design and requirements for shipboards and submarines, wired (fiber-optical, CAT-5, coaxial, etc.) backbone network architectures and LAN designs (considering ATM, ATM-ELAN, Ethernet, Gigabit-Ethernet, MPLS, etc.) and commercial and military requirements for C4I systems, voice and data protocols for enhanced wired and wireless networks. Regarding the security packages available and the regulations to follow, throughout the development process the Navys Information Assurance (IA) and Information Systems Security (INFOSEC) requirements and recommendations will be considered as a guideline for the wireless and wired network security systems and protocols to be developed. At the foundation level of the development, the FIPS 140-1 and 140-2 standards will be considered. On the innovative side, intrusion detection systems and protection protocols in defense of insider attacks will be included. The objective of the proposed research is to develop innovative high performance low cost security systems and protocols that are coherent with industry standards but provide enhanced levels of protection to the communicating units.
Benefits: We will create a secure end-to-end security architecture that is distinct, robust, extensible, and addresses shortcomings of current wired and wireless networks. These security advances are applicable to many horizontal and vertical markets, and will be of benefit to commercial, industrial, and government systems alike.
Keywords: VPN, MPLS, FPGA, DSP, Security, WLAN, Intrusion Detection, Bluetooth
