An Implication of an Optical Data Diode,
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.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA365579
Entities
People
- Malcolm W. Stevens
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Group