ABSTRACT

Figure 8.1 provides an overview of the communication infrastructure within the smart grid. Distribution, transmission, and generation domains are identified as well as their interconnectivity and dependency on other parties. e figure identifies various protocols necessary to support this communication and highlights the connectivity between substations and control centers. Security concerns

are specifically presented by the unprotected substations and feasible external accessibility of control centers due to corporate and vendor requirements. In addition, smart grid advancements such as advanced metering infrastructures (AMIs) and wide-area measurement systems (WAMSs) will only present greater interconnectivity of these systems.