Thiruvalluvar University

Mitigating Software Integrity Attacks With Trusted

Computing in a Time Distribution Network
 Abstract
• Software integrity attacks pose significant threats to the security and reliability of time
distribution networks (TDNs). These attacks can compromise critical systems such as those used
in financial transactions, communication networks, and power grids. Traditional security measures
such as firewalls and encryption techniques are not always sufficient to prevent these attacks.
Trusted computing technologies offer a promising solution by providing a secure and tamper-
resistant environment for software execution. In this paper, we propose a framework that
leverages trusted computing to mitigate software integrity attacks in TDNs.

• Our approach involves securely booting and verifying the integrity of time synchronization
software using a trusted platform module (TPM) during system initialization. We also explore
the use of remote attestation to continuously monitor the software's integrity at runtime. Through
simulation and analysis, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our framework in detecting and
mitigating various software integrity attacks, thus enhancing the overall security of TDNs.
 Introduction
• In the realm of Time Distribution Networks (TDNs), ensuring the integrity and security of
software systems is of paramount importance. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats,
traditional security measures often fall short in providing robust protection. This has led to the
exploration and adoption of innovative technologies such as Trusted Computing (TC) to mitigate
software integrity attacks effectively.

• Trusted Computing, at its core, revolves around the concept of establishing a secure and
trustworthy computing environment through hardware-based mechanisms. By leveraging
dedicated hardware components such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs), TC enables the
verification of system integrity and the establishment of secure communication channels.
 List of Problems
• Hardware Dependency: Trusted computing often relies on specialized hardware components
such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs). Integrating these components into existing
infrastructure can be costly and require hardware upgrades.

• Key Management: Managing cryptographic keys securely is crucial for the success of trusted
computing solutions. Key generation, distribution, and revocation mechanisms need to be well-
designed to prevent unauthorized access.

• Scalability: Trusted computing solutions must scale efficiently to handle large-scale time
distribution networks. Ensuring performance and reliability under increasing workloads and
network sizes is a significant challenge.
 Existing System
• In the existing system of a Time Distribution Network (TDN), ensuring software integrity is
critical for maintaining the accuracy and security of time-sensitive operations. However,
traditional security measures may not be sufficient to prevent sophisticated software integrity
attacks. To address this challenge, integrating Trusted Computing can significantly enhance the
security posture of the TDN.

• Trusted Computing encompasses hardware and software technologies that establish a trusted
environment for computing processes. It relies on a secure root of trust, typically implemented in
hardware components like Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs), to securely store cryptographic
keys, measurements of system integrity, and other sensitive information.
 Proposed system
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM): Integrate TPM chips into the devices within the time
distribution network. TPM provides a hardware-based root of trust that can securely store
cryptographic keys, measurements, and other sensitive data.

• Secure Boot Process: Implement a secure boot process using the TPM to ensure that only
authorized and unmodified software components are loaded during system startup. This prevents
malicious software from compromising the integrity of the system.

• Code Signing and Verification: Require all software components, including firmware updates
and applications, to be digitally signed using a trusted certificate authority (CA). The TPM can be
used to verify the authenticity and integrity of these signed components during the boot process.
 HW/SW Requirements
Hardware Requirements

• Processor : Intel Core processor

• Hard disk : 160 GB

• RAM : 2 GB

Software Requirements

• Operating System : Windows 7 / 8 / 10

• Coding Language : PHP

• Framework : XAMPP

• Web server : Apache Tomcat 8.0

•
Activity Diagram
Use Case Diagram
System Architecture Diagram
Sequence Diagram
Data Flow Diagram
Result
 Conclusion
• In conclusion, leveraging trusted computing mechanisms to mitigate software integrity attacks in
a time distribution network (TDN) offers significant advantages. By employing trusted platforms
and hardware-based security features, such as secure boot, cryptographic verification, and
attestation protocols, organizations can enhance the overall security posture of TDNs. These
measures provide assurances regarding the integrity of software components, prevent
unauthorized modifications, and detect malicious activities in real-time. Furthermore, the
integration of trusted computing technologies fosters trust among network stakeholders, enhances
system reliability, and reduces the risk of potential vulnerabilities being exploited. It also
facilitates compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards related to
cybersecurity. As threats to software integrity continue to evolve, adopting a proactive approach
through trusted computing becomes imperative for safeguarding critical infrastructure and
ensuring uninterrupted operation of time-sensitive applications within TDNs.
 Reference
• Li, Y., Wang, X., Li, X., & Zhang, X. (2019). A trusted computing-based software integrity
measurement and verification mechanism for IoT.

• Ren, J., Sun, X., Zhang, Y., Xu, H., & Tian, H. (2020). Securing time-sensitive networks against
cyber-physical attacks with trusted computing.

• Jiang, L., Han, Y., & Wu, D. (2018). Software integrity protection scheme based on trusted
computing platform.

• Zhang, Y., Sun, X., Ren, J., & Tian, H. (2019). A trusted computing-based security framework for
time-sensitive networking in industrial Internet of Things.

• Yu, Y., Yu, F. R., Zhang, Y., & Chen, G. (2020). Joint device authentication and data integrity
verification in industrial Internet of Things: A trusted computing perspective.
Thank You