An Information Security Assessments Framework for Power Control Systems

Abstract

Information and cyber security of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) faces severe challenges and has gained considerable importance. Information security assessment is an essential component of information security assurance infrastructure mechanisms. First, a hierarchical model of smart grid was abstracted. Based on the proposed model and the information security risks and information security protection demands of power control systems, an information security assessments framework for power control systems was proposed in dimensions of system layers and life cycle to guide the security assessment contents of power control systems. Finally, a test bed function design for power control system security assessment was proposed. The power control system security test bed may include four parts, such as power control system security assessment management platform, power control system simulation environment, security assessment tools, and security policy. The proposed security assessment framework and test bed functional design can be used to guide the electric power utilities in their power control system information security efforts.