Critical Infrastructures - 24/7 Monitoring
Scalable Monitoring Systems
for long-term Network Security
Implement 24/7 Monitoring
Quickly and Easily
Optical fibers are the lifelines of our modern information society. This is why they must be always protected against disruption and manipulation – especially, when it comes to critical infrastructures such as telecommunications, healthcare or administration. In these cases, German legislation has issued the KRITIS Act to ensure functionality at all times.
Software Solutions
Beyond Borders
Web-based documentation software and OTDR technology work hand in hand
Scalable monitoring systems minimize outages, enable fast response times and are flexible enough to support future network expansions. Many municipal utilities and network operators use software solutions such as cableScout, the fiber management solution from josoftware. These web-based systems build on extensive databases that document all monitored objects and their attributes. The measurement data for 24/7 monitoring is collected using Optical Time Domain Reflectrometry (OTDR). The corresponding devices can be easily integrated into the system via standard interfaces.
The software evaluates the measurement results, detects faults such as fiber breaks or high attenuation values and immediately informs the network operator by email, SMS or push notification. This approach minimizes downtimes and significantly reduces the risk of painful contractual penalties. Especially in view of the drastically increased consequences that are expected as a result of the implementation of the Nis2 directive.
Localized monitoring
for short response times
OTDR measurements are a proven method of assessing the condition of a fiber optic cable. For this purpose, short light pulses are sent through the fiber and the reflected signals measured. In this way, the system can not only detect faults such as fiber breaks, attenuation points or connection problems, but also precisely locate them - even over distances of 150 kilometers. This spatially resolved fault detection offers considerable advantages during maintenance and repair, as technicians can intervene directly at the nearest possible access point.
In critical networks where operators are legally obliged to minimize downtimes and guarantee permanent availability, the value of such short repair times cannot be overstated. Municipal utilities and other network operators can thus comply with legal requirements more easily and minimize security risks for the general public. Of course, this also reduces the risk of fines or more drastic measures from the legislator.
SmartOTU
Ready to use and fully scalable
The SmartOTU system from VIAVI Solutions is particularly well suited for 24/7 monitoring of KRITIS networks, as it combines OTDR and advanced switch technology so that fiber optic cables with lengths of up to 150 km can be monitored in all directions. As a plug-and-play module, it is easily integrated into existing networks without the need for training or IT configuration and ready for immediate use. The investment pays off, as the SmartOTU is fully scalable and can be easily expanded if required.
The passive infrastructure is also at risk
The use of fiber optic detectors for infrastructure monitoring is also recommended. These all-optical detectors do not require any power supply and ensure that not only the network is protected against sabotage and environmental influences, but also its passive infrastructures such as shafts, pipes, operating and monitoring rooms. The sensors detect even the smallest fluctuations in temperature or humidity and trigger an alarm. All signals are transmitted over the existing fiber optic cable. A single fiber can be connected to up to 80 different sensors and detectors.
Critical infrastructure is a responsibility to society
It is evident that 24/7 network monitoring is essential for critical infrastructures such as telecommunications, energy and water. Even the requirements of the current KRITIS legislation can hardly be implemented without consistent monitoring. In addition to the high penalties, companies should also take the background of the legislation seriously, namely the protection of society and communities from the effects of natural disasters or cyber attacks. Municipal operators such as public utilities have a particular obligation here. The NIS2 Directive, which is expected to be transposed into German law in October 2024, will make it even more urgent to act, as it will tighten both the security requirements and the reporting obligation. As things stand, a breach of the law can have serious consequences.
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Beyond Borders
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