An Implication of an Optical Data Diode,

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA365579 | Open PDF

Abstract:

A data diode is a computer security device that restricts the communication along a network connection between two computers so that data can only be transmitted in one direction. This enables a more sensitive or highly classified computer network to receive data directly from a less secure source while prohibiting the transmission of data in the opposite direction. This paper shows that it is quite simple to construct both the hardware for an optical data diode and also the software to communicate through the device. Data diodes are generally designed to protect the confidentiality of data on the higher classified system. Integrity, availability and reliability issues are also discussed. An alternate use for data diodes is also explored, where in certain circumstances the data diode can provide strong integrity protection to data on the system which transmits the data through a data diode. The data diode also provides availability protection to this system from the systems on the receiving end of the data diode.

Author(s):
Stevens, Malcolm W.
Author Organization(s):
DEFENCE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ORGANISATION CANBERRA (AUSTRALIA)
Pagination:
0031

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
DSTO-TR-0785
Monitor Series:
X5
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_6_Net Centric; JCA_6.1.1_Wired Transmission; JCA_6.1.3_Switching and Routing; JCA_6.1_Information Transport; JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_6.4.1_Secure Information Exchange; JCA_6.4.2_Protect Data and Networks; JCA_6.4_Information Assurance; JCA_4.7.2_Installation Services; JCA_4.7_Base and Installations Support; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_5.2.3_Share Knowledge and Situational Awareness; JCA_5.2_Understand; JCA_5.5.1_Communicate Intent and Guidance; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.2_Engagement; JCA_3.2.2_Non-Kinetic Means; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_6.2.1_Information Sharing; JCA_6.2.2_Computing Services; JCA_6.2.3_Core Enterprise Services
Modernization Areas:
Cyber
Communities of Interest:
Energy and Power Technologies
Descriptor(s):
*DIODES, *DATA PROCESSING SECURITY, *OPTICAL DATA, *COMPUTER NETWORKS, COMPUTER PROGRAMS, SOURCES, DATA TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS, COMPUTERS, RELIABILITY, AVAILABILITY, PROTECTION, AUSTRALIA
Field(s)/Group(s):
Computer Systems, Computer Systems Management and Standards
Keyword(s):
FOREIGN REPORTS
Report Date:
1999 May 01
Creation Date:
1999 Jul 28