Reconfigurable Network Slicing Orchestration in Network Function Virtualization Compatible Operational Technology Environment

Conference · Tue Sep 17 00:00:00 EDT 2024

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1109/SmartGridComm60555.2024.10738063· OSTI ID:3003237

Rodiles Delgado, Brian G. ^[1]; Aguayo, Jared M. ^[2]; Gomez Rivera, Abel O. ^[3]; Tosh, Deepak K. ^[1]

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1. University of Texas at El Paso,Department of Computer Science,TX,USA
2. John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory,Laurel,MD,USA
3. Sandia National Laboratories,Albuquerque,NM,USA

The ongoing transition to Industry 4.0, which is characterized by increased inter-connectivity of cyber-physical systems, requires having time-sensitive, high throughput, and secure transfer of critical data in industrial sites. In this context, network slicing emerges as a critical tool to ensure timely data delivery by provisioning the network resources to cater to specific applications’ requirements and mitigating potential cyber attacks. To address these challenges, this paper aims to tackle two key questions essential for the successful implementation of network slicing in industrial environments. First, it investigates architectural considerations for developing a network infrastructure capable of supporting network slicing functionalities effectively. The proposed approach significantly improves deployment efficiency over traditional manual configurations. Second, it delves into the automated orchestration process, elucidating the steps and components involved in transitioning from a static network management approach to dynamically leverage network function virtualization schemes for creating network slices in ad-hoc manner. The system demonstrates high throughput suitable for production-level solutions and maintains exceptionally low latency, making it ideal for ultra-reliable low-latency communications. Even with increased network demands, the system remains stable, with effective Quality of Service (QoS) management, ensuring reliable performance under varying conditions. The proposed architecture outlines the necessary components, services, and communication protocols required for a production-level orchestrator for network segmentation in SCADA environments.

• Research Organization: National Energy Technology Laboratory
• Sponsoring Organization: Office of Fossil Energy; Department of Energy
• DOE Contract Number: FE0032089
• OSTI ID: 3003237
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English