"Active Neighbour": A Novel Monitoring Model for Cyber-Physical Systems

TL;DR

The paper addresses security challenges in monitoring Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) and surveys existing monitoring models. It introduces Active Neighbour, a dynamic, role-based monitoring framework that employs a Time-based One-Time Authentication algorithm (TOTA) and IPSec-enabled communications, implemented in the COOJA simulator of Contiki OS. The architecture features a Central Management Unit (CMU), High-Rank Nodes (HRNs), and Low-Rank Nodes (LRNs), with a dynamic role-assignment algorithm to sustain operation under failures. Case studies across plain AN, AN with message authentication, and AN with IPSec demonstrate overhead trade-offs and the ongoing need for extensive evaluation of computational, data, and energy metrics.

Abstract

Over the past decade, advancements in technology have enabled Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) to monitor sensor networks through various methodologies. However, these developments have concurrently introduced significant security challenges, necessitating robust protective measures. As a result, securing CPS has become a critical area of research. This paper reviews existing CPS monitoring models and introduces an innovative role-based monitoring model designed to meet contemporary security requirements. The proposed model is implemented within the COOJA simulator of the Contiki OS and evaluated under three distinct security configurations. Preliminary results demonstrate promising outcomes, although further comprehensive testing is ongoing.

Figures (3)

• Figure 1: Active Neighbour’s architectural design.
• Figure 2: Implementation of the “Active Neighbour” model in Contiki OS.
• Figure 3: Comparison of the monitoring cases.