Android Network Created to Study Cyber Disruptions

Sandia National Laboratories in California have turned to smartphones and other hand-held computing devices to help prevent and mitigate disruptions to computer networks on the Internet as part of ongoing research.

Researchers at Sandia linked together 300,000 virtual hand-held computing devices running the Android operating system in order to study large networks of smartphones and find ways to make them more reliable and secure. The work from this research is expected to result in a software tool that will allow others in the cyber research community to study the behaviors of smartphone networks and to model similar environments, which will enable the computing industry to better defend hand-held devices from malicious intent.

The Android project (Megadroid) is expected to help researchers understand large scale networks more fully. The virtual Android network at Sandia can be build up into a realistic computing environment that would consist of a web server, multiple subnets, a full domain name service, and an Internet relay chat. Key focus of the project is working with a Global Positioning system (GPS) and created simulated data in order for the researchers to discover and analyze what hackers can do to smartphone networks. The researchers hope this project will result in creating a steppingstone to help understand and limit damage from network disruptions caused by glitches, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other causes.

Featured

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.