Continuously Assured Heterogeneous Networking (CAHN)

The Continuous Assurance of Heterogeneous Networks (CAHN) project, directly address the network of network use case. In doing so it addresses performance/coverage/security and resilience priorities. It also represents a fundamental technology advancement, laying the groundwork for future network and most importantly embodies a mature IP and standards strategy which guarantees protectable UK based intellectual property

A robust network of network approach needs more modern thinking of how security and authorisation work. We need secure framework for unified access across networks. A well designed system will not only be more secure, it will usable and it will be flexible enough to support diverse and evolving business modes.

Traditional telecoms security uses secure element (SIM card) as a portable token for identity management. This provides a weak form of authentication; steal the SIM and you have access to the network. Its also highly fragmented; different networks types have widely different approaches. This fragmented approach significantly limits innovative business models being developed as.

CAHN will implement much stronger multi factor authorisation methods, which surface essential security attributes, which current networking protocols do not have access to. Further the authorisation mechanisms will be used across heterogenous networks; we will demonstrate continuous assurance, where both connected device and networks and mutually adapt to shifting security posture, embodying zero trust principles. Thirdly, the protocols being tested allows for common authentication across networking bearers: specifically in scope: 5G(4G), LTE-M, Satellite, LoRa, MATTER and WIFI. And finally the development creates the opportunity developing new business models, where digital sales invoices, for example can be integrated into the assessment of security posture.

The network of network capabilities will be evaluated across WIFI, 5G and satellite scenarios. We will demonstrate enhanced security credentials through unified enhanced protocols. End user devices will be demonstrated on both mass market terminal devices and enhanced capabilities using CHERI/Morello (Secure by Design) demonstrator board.