Security Gateway, Encrypting Transceiver Offer Cyber Security

July 21, 2009
The new SEL-3620 Ethernet Security Gateway protects site-to-site Ethernet communications as well as private networks, allowing users to maximize the benefits of a smart grid while minimizing security risk. Easy to use and tough enough for harsh environments, the SEL-3620 operates with existing IT and control systems, using an intuitive, menu-driven web interface

SEL’s security solutions provide an effective means for reducing electronic vulnerabilities in critical communications systems ranging from serial to Ethernet and SCADA to engineering access. The new SEL-3620 Ethernet Security Gateway protects site-to-site Ethernet communications as well as private networks, allowing users to maximize the benefits of a smart grid while minimizing security risk. Easy to use and tough enough for harsh environments, the SEL-3620 operates with existing IT and control systems, using an intuitive, menu-driven web interface.

SEL designed and built the Ethernet security gateway, available this November, as part of a research project with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Tennessee Valley Authority, and Sandia National Laboratories, among other partners.

“The SEL-3620, an OPSAID-compliant device, can provide a synergistic solution that benefits specific needs in securing our critical infrastructure, including smart grid communications,” said DOE Deputy Assistant Secretary Hank Kenchington. “This is a good example of the Department of Energy, a national laboratory, and a private company working together to provide useful solutions to critical needs in a timely fashion.”

Another element of SEL’s smart grid security solutions is the SEL-3021 Serial Encrypting Transceiver. It protects point-to-point and multidrop data links from attacks and eavesdropping, with advanced encryption validated to Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2 Level 2. For wireless applications, the SEL-3022 Wireless Encrypting Transceiver creates a cryptographically secure wireless link between a computer and remote IED serial communications port.

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