Unconditional security for the smart power grids and star networks

Abstract

We introduce a protocol with a reconfigurable switch circuit system to create non-overlapping single loops in the smart power grid for the realization of the Kirchhoff-Law-Johnson-(like)-Noise secure key distribution system. The protocol is valid for star networks which are in some of the electric distribution networks between the utility and the customer. The star network can also be utilized to control traffic networks. The speed of the protocol (the number of steps needed) versus grid size and the functional characteristics of the star network are explored. When properly generalized, such a system has the potential to achieve unconditionally secure key distribution over the smart power grid and traffic networks of arbitrary geometrical dimensions.