Integration of Remote Attestation into IEC 61850

Abstract

The continuing integration of decentralized energy generators requires a more flexible power grid, which necessitates the use of stronger automation and more communication technologies between the control systems. This is accompanied by an increase in the attack surface of the power grid, such as attacks on firmware of intelligent electronic devices. This publication aims to secure intelligent electronic devices by monitoring their firmware. To achieve this aim, Trusted Computing technology such as remote attestation are integrated into the power grid domain specific communication standards to improve security in the current power grid architecture. The outcome is an appropriate conceptual information model for the IEC 61850 standard in order to be qualified to transfer remote attestation information and exchange them with the control centre. Such a solution is perfectly designed for automatic remote monitoring.