Security Assessment of Time Synchronization Mechanisms for the Smart Grid

Abstract

The need to dynamically monitor the modern power grid, react to its disturbances, control, and protect its operations requires the availability of globally synchronized measurement devices. Accurate time synchronization across these devices is as essential as the services they provide. The secure operation of the time supplying mechanisms soar among the main concerns on the path towards the smart grid. In this paper, we overview the mechanisms serving time synchronization for the smart grid. We analyze their security aspects and review their pitfalls. The standardization efforts to meet the grid's timing needs are also presented. Finally, gaps revealed through the analysis are disclosed and mitigation strategies are proposed.