RAD Launches Secure SCADA-Aware Solution for Power Utilities and Transportation Networks

RAD, the veteran manufacturer of Service Assured Networking solutions for utilities and transportation networks, has announced the launch of its new ruggedized IEC 61850-3 and IEEE 1613 compliant SecFlow™ Ethernet switch/router.

“What makes SecFlow unique is that it is the only secure, SCADA-aware switch/router in the market that incorporates up to 16 Fast Ethernet and two Gigabit Ethernet ports as well as integrated serial interfaces, protocol gateway functionality and an advanced firewall in a single box,” states Mati Epstein, Power Utilities & Transportation Line of Business head at RAD.

Seamless Communication of IP SCADA to Old and New RTUs
SecFlow provides flexible connectivity for Ethernet intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) as well as older serial remote terminal units (RTUs) with full redundancy over various topologies using fiber optic rings, 2/3G cellular modems and external radio systems. The gateway function enables it to comprehend both Ethernet IED and serial RTU protocols, so, in utility applications, SecFlow can convert old IEC-101 SCADA protocols to the new IEC-104 IP-compatible equivalents, or Modbus serial to IP, DNP3 and others. These conversions enable seamless communication of IP SCADA to both old and new RTUs.

“SecFlow is future proof, in that it leverages new packet-switched infrastructure for legacy connectivity,” Epstein notes. “This will reduce CapEx and OpEx in the years ahead, even after the migration to packet-switched networks is complete.”

Per Port SCADA-Aware Firewall with Integrated VPN
The solution’s advanced security package includes a per-port SCADA-aware firewall employing deep packet inspection, and an integrated VPN agent for inter-site connectivity using IPsec, so that critical information is encrypted end-to-end. “Security threats and regulations are forcing the adoption of combined protection mechanisms in any new communications solution,” Epstein explains. “Bringing distributed security directly into every node in the network, rather than restricting it to a central site, protects the entire system from the latest generation of risks, which can emanate from many different directions” he adds. “Unmanned sites may otherwise be easily penetrated, regardless of the precautions taken at the control center.”

“Ruggedized and built for the demanding conditions of utilities and transportation networks, SecFlow provides a total multiservice solution,” Epstein concludes.

RAD’s power utility customers include Eskom, Terna, Enel, National Grid USA, Hydro Quebec, Endesa, IEC, Kepco, Meralco, E-on, Elia, Nampower, AES, Powercor, and Novosibirsk Energo. Its solutions have also been deployed at international airports in Britain, Germany, India, and Korea; by nationwide railways in Romania, Singapore, Spain, and Vietnam; and by expressways in Australia, Canada, Japan, and Switzerland.