CSE Associate Professor Dr. Attila A. Yavuz and his lab, Applied Cryptography Research Laboratory (ACRL), are embarking on a groundbreaking research initiative, "SATUQ: TrUstworthy SATINs in the post-Quantum era," aimed at revolutionizing the security of next-generation SAtellite-Terrestrial Integrated Networks (SATIN). This one-of-a-kind project represents a collaborative effort between the 色色研究所 (USF) and Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) in Switzerland, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), respectively. This unique multi-national team highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex global challenges (with an approximate total budget of $850,000 for 3+1 years). The SATUQ project focuses on ensuring the reliability and safety of satellite networks that are essential for future mobile networks and the Internet of Things (IoT).
In our increasingly interconnected world, satellite networks are set to play a pivotal role in achieving seamless connectivity across various platforms, from 6G mobile networks to autonomous systems. However, the unique characteristics of these networks such as high latency, error rates, and the looming threat of quantum computing present significant security challenges. The SATUQ project seeks to develop efficient and lightweight security protocols specifically tailored for these emerging systems. This innovative approach aims not only to protect against existing threats but also to prepare for the future of cybersecurity in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Our goal is to create a resilient cybersecurity framework that not only protects against current threats but is also prepared for the future, says Professor Dr. Attila A. Yavuz. As a passionate advocate for cryptography and cybersecurity, this project allows me to harness my expertise to safeguard critical communication infrastructures in an era where quantum threats loom large. By innovating on post-quantum cryptographic techniques and leveraging distributed SATIN architectures and protocols, we aim to enhance the performance and reliability of satellite networks while minimizing delays and ensuring robust security.
Key features of the SATUQ project include:
- Innovative Security Solutions: The project will focus on developing fast, lightweight security protocols that provide post-quantum security to safeguard communications against potential future threats. By employing decentralized architectures, we aim to enhance the resilience of the network while significantly reducing delays associated with satellite communications. This dual approach not only ensures secure transmissions but also optimizes performance across distributed terrestrial networks, making them more effective in managing data flows and maintaining connectivity.
- Performance Evaluation Framework: Creation of comprehensive simulation tools to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed security measures in real-world scenarios.
- Open-Source Initiatives: Commitment to making all developed cybersecurity solutions publicly available, promoting transparency and collaboration in the scientific community.
The proposed project is expected to tackle some of the biggest open research challenges in emerging satellite systems with innovative solutions, thereby making a significant impact on a variety of real-life applications, including mobile networks and the Internet of Everything (IoE). The advancements from this initiative will not only enhance national security but also contribute to the development of environmentally friendly security practices with reduced energy consumption, ensuring a secure and sustainable future for next-generation networks.