Communication Device Time Source Switching for Security Threats
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Solution Overview
Problem
In radio access networks, time synchronization accuracy can be deteriorated due to security threats such as denial of service (DOS) attacks, which existing methods do not adequately address by failing to notify other nodes of synchronization accuracy issues.
Innovation Solution
A communication device with redundant time sources and a processor that executes time synchronization processing, detects accuracy-deteriorating events, and transmits threat information to a communication management device. The device then receives recommendations for time source ports based on priority and resource availability, allowing it to switch and maintain high-quality time synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single time source is used for time synchronization in radio access networks, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and resistance to security threats such as DOS attacks deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the time source function by providing multiple independent time sources (first time source and second time source) that can be selectively used. Each time source can be independently monitored for security threats, allowing the system to segment the risk and maintain reliability even when one source is compromised or under attack.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different time sources based on the operational state. The switch component dynamically selects which time source to use based on security threat detection, and the processor dynamically adjusts synchronization parameters. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to maintain high reliability by responding to changing security conditions in real-time.
2Reliability
If multiple time sources are implemented with redundancy, then the reliability and security resistance improve, but the device complexity and management overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication management device acts as an intermediary that centralizes the management of multiple time sources. Instead of each node independently managing multiple time sources, the management device handles the complexity of monitoring, selection, and coordination. This intermediary approach reduces the operational complexity at individual nodes while maintaining the benefits of redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the processor monitors synchronization accuracy and security threats, then provides feedback to the switch and communication management device. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust which time source is used based on real-time conditions, reducing the need for complex manual management and configuration.
3Speed
If the system automatically switches between time sources based on threat detection, then the response time to security attacks improves, but the device complexity and control logic increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring multiple time sources and establishing their priorities before security threats occur. The switch is pre-programmed with the ability to automatically switch between time sources based on predetermined criteria. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid response to security attacks without requiring complex real-time decision-making logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device includes a first port that receives a signal related to a first time source, a second port that receives a signal related to a second time source, a switch that selects the first port or the second port, and processor circuitry configured to execute time synchronization processing by using a signal received via the selected port, detect an event that deteriorates accuracy of the time synchronization processing, transmit information related to a threat to the time synchronization processing to a communication management device when the event is detected, and receive information of recommend port from the communication management device, wherein, when the processor circuitry receives the information from the communication management device, the switch selects the first port or the second port based on a priority of the first time source, a priority of the second time source, and the information received from the communication management device.