Security and Reliability of Critical Infrastructure Fiber Optic Networks

Figure 1: Growing Asia Pacific fiber optic market

The normal operation of a country requires the support of critical infrastructure, and we are not just talking about physical infrastructure. It takes all departments to work together to make the engine of the country run. Departments dealing with critical infrastructure (such as water supply systems, power grids, and transportation networks) are often vital gears that require uninterrupted connectivity using fiber optic networks.

Why is fiber considered an excellent choice for critical infrastructure?

To ensure that these critical infrastructures operate smoothly, seamless communications are key to handling the massive amounts of data generated every day. Fiber optics has become the most reliable option for running critical infrastructures.

As critical infrastructure systems process large amounts of data using smart devices and modern system networks, faster communication networks such as 5G are needed. This advanced technology requires a powerful 5G fiber backhaul network.

Security: A major concern for critical infrastructure fiber

Hackers are increasingly sophisticated, viewing critical infrastructure systems as a gold mine of exploitable data.

Without secure communications networks, critical infrastructure systems could collapse if malicious actors gain control of vulnerabilities. Fiber optic networks are more secure than traditional communications technologies with the following key differences:

• Data transmission using light - pulses of light that carry data across fiber-optic networks - are much harder to intercept than electrical signals carried over copper wires or wireless signals transmitted via satellite.
• Difficult to tamper with – Cable-based communication systems can be easily tampered with through a simple splice. However, gaining access to the data transmitted inside the fiber is more challenging as the splicing process requires extraordinary expertise, further strengthening the security of your data.
• Easy to detect intrusions – Another excellent security feature of using 5G fiber backhaul networks is that they can quickly identify damaged/tampered cables.

Why are fiber optic networks more reliable for critical infrastructure systems?

Figure 2: Fiber transmission capacity

Today’s critical infrastructure systems require massive amounts of bandwidth to accommodate hundreds of GB of data traffic and the surging number of devices on the network. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity and high data transfer speeds, building an efficient 5G fiber backhaul network is critical.

The following are the main areas where fiber optics has high reliability in critical infrastructure systems:

1. High data transmission capacity – Single-mode and multimode optical fibers are extremely effective in transmitting large amounts of data, from short distances to several kilometers at speeds of up to 160Gbit/s.

2. Low latency - One of the most critical requirements of 5G networks is low latency. Previous generations of communication technology simply could not handle large amounts of data and maintain their low latency levels. However, with a network built on optical fiber, latency levels have been significantly reduced to enable near real-time critical operations.

3. Lower attenuation – Signal loss due to various factors is the most common problem faced by copper networks. Fiber optic networks, on the other hand, offer better performance at a much lower attenuation level.

Challenges of Maintaining Fiber Network Security and Reliability

Figure 3: Overall diagram of a typical optical access network

Despite the increasing deployment of fiber by enterprises and critical infrastructure organizations, several challenges hinder the adoption of fiber networks.

Cybersecurity

Despite the high security levels, optical fiber is still vulnerable. Therefore, sophisticated security measures such as encryption and intrusion detection systems are recommended to protect 5G optical fiber backhaul networks.

Physical Security

Vandalism and theft pose a significant risk to fiber optic networks. Such incidents can cause physical damage that disrupts the functionality of the network. Steps must be taken to prevent such incidents.

Where does the future lead us?

Considering the various promises and challenges that fiber networks present, it’s fair to say that critical infrastructure systems are looking to fiber market leaders to ensure their 5G fiber backhaul networks are ready for future challenges and needs.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why do critical infrastructure systems need fiber connectivity?

Because modern systems such as education, healthcare, government operations, power and water systems process large amounts of data, they require fiber optic networks to meet high computing demands.

2. How to prevent external interference in fiber optic networks?

Fiber-optic networks use pulses of light to transmit data inside glass fibers, making them immune to outside interference. In addition, hacking into the network by splicing cables is extremely challenging.

3. What are the different challenges in fiber optic network deployment and maintenance?

Professional hacking incidents, physical events such as theft and vandalism, and natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods can hinder the adoption of fiber optic networks.