A SDN-Based Access Control Framework for Powerline Communications Networks

Abstract

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in smart grid environments has been intensified by the need for robust, granular security in Powerline Communication (PLC) networks. Although the G.hn standard offers high-speed data rates over electrical wiring, it lacks a programmable and centralised security layer capable of dynamic access control. This paper proposes a Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architecture to enforce Media Access Control (MAC) based access control authentication at the MAC layer in a G.hn environment. By integrating the Ryu SDN controller with a simulated G.hn topology via a transparent bridging gateway, it is possible to demonstrate a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) setup that enables filtering of unauthorised devices at the edge. Our proposed framework results indicate that it is effective in mitigating unauthorised access while maintaining the throughput characteristics required for high-bandwidth PLC applications.