SCADAPack E Security

Technical Reference
 2 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Table of Contents

Part I Security Technical 4

1 Technical
...................................................................................................................................
Support 4
2 Safety ...................................................................................................................................
Information 5
3 References
................................................................................................................................... 7
4 Terminology
................................................................................................................................... 9
5 Introduction
................................................................................................................................... 12
5.1 Standards .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
5.2 Operational Goals,
..........................................................................................................................................................
Functionality Sum m ary, & Standard RTU Operation 15
5.3 SCADAPack E..........................................................................................................................................................
RTU Security 17
5.3.1 What is DNP3
.........................................................................................................................................................
Secure Authentication? 18
5.3.2 How does .........................................................................................................................................................
DNP3 Secure Authentication Work? 18
5.3.3 What is AGA12?
......................................................................................................................................................... 20
5.3.4 How does .........................................................................................................................................................
AGA12 Work? 22
5.3.5 Supported .........................................................................................................................................................
AGA12-2 Functionality 22
5.3.6 How do DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 Encryption Work
together? ......................................................................................................................................................... 24
5.3.7 Highlights of .........................................................................................................................................................
SCADAPack E RTU Security 24
5.4 Licensing .......................................................................................................................................................... 27
5.5 Key Managem..........................................................................................................................................................
ent 28
5.5.1 SCADAPack .........................................................................................................................................................
E Configurator Key Modes 29
5.5.2 Master Key.........................................................................................................................................................
Configuration 29
5.5.3 Compact Flash .........................................................................................................................................................
Entry and UTIL LED 31
5.5.4 Local USB .........................................................................................................................................................
Configuration 32
5.6 User-based Authentication
.......................................................................................................................................................... 33
6 Telnet...................................................................................................................................
and FTP Authentication 33
7 Using...................................................................................................................................
SCADAPack E Security 33
7.1 Description of..........................................................................................................................................................
Security Facilities 35
7.2 DNP3 Secure Authentication
.......................................................................................................................................................... 36
7.2.1 Challenged.........................................................................................................................................................
Functions 36
7.2.2 Security Settings
......................................................................................................................................................... 38
7.2.3 Aggressive.........................................................................................................................................................
Mode 41
7.2.4 Vulnerabilities
.........................................................................................................................................................
Addressed 43
7.3 AGA12 Encryption.......................................................................................................................................................... 44
7.3.1 AGA12 Node .........................................................................................................................................................
RTU 45
7.3.2 AGA12 Gatew .........................................................................................................................................................
ay and Session Establishment 47
7.3.3 AGA12 Gatew .........................................................................................................................................................
ay RTU 49
7.3.3.1 Configuring an AGA12 .........................................................................................................................................
Gatew ay RTU 51
7.3.4 Secure Communications
.........................................................................................................................................................
and Node Operation 52
7.3.5 Typical System
.........................................................................................................................................................
Layout 54
7.3.6 Addressing.........................................................................................................................................................
and Local Communication 55
7.3.7 Remote RTUs .........................................................................................................................................................
Communicating using an AGA12 Gatew ay 56
7.3.8 Operating as.........................................................................................................................................................
a Data Concentrator 57
7.3.9 Example Configurations
......................................................................................................................................................... 58
7.3.10 AGA12 Parameters
......................................................................................................................................................... 60
7.3.10.1 DNP3 Routing Table .........................................................................................................................................
and AGA12 Settings 61
 Contents 3

7.3.10.2 Fixed AGA12-2 Parameters ......................................................................................................................................... 63

7.3.10.3 Vulnerabilities Addressed
......................................................................................................................................... 64
7.4 DNP3 Routing .......................................................................................................................................................... 65
7.5 Peer Com m unication,
..........................................................................................................................................................
Multiple Masters, & Start-Up and Shutdow n 67
7.6 Security Considerations
.......................................................................................................................................................... 68
8 Security
...................................................................................................................................
Administration 69
8.1 Security File Managem
..........................................................................................................................................................
ent & Counterpart Entry Managem ent 70
9 Diagnostics
................................................................................................................................... 70
9.1 DNP3 Secure Authentication
..........................................................................................................................................................
Diagnostics 71
9.1.1 Diagnostic .........................................................................................................................................................
Example - No RTU Security Configured 71
9.1.2 Diagnostic .........................................................................................................................................................
Example - Incorrect Security Credentials 73
9.1.3 Diagnostic .........................................................................................................................................................
Example - Successful Critical Message Challenge 75
9.2 AGA12 Encryption ..........................................................................................................................................................
Diagnostics 77
9.2.1 Diagnostic .........................................................................................................................................................
Filtering 77
9.2.2 Routing Rule .........................................................................................................................................................
Diagnostics 78
9.2.3 Diagnostic .........................................................................................................................................................
Example - Session Open Transactions 82
9.2.4 Diagnostic .........................................................................................................................................................
Example - Session Re-establishment Transactions 89
9.2.5 System Points ......................................................................................................................................................... 91
10 Attack...................................................................................................................................
Vectors & Requirements 92
10.1 Protocol and Configuration
..........................................................................................................................................................
attacks on RTU 93
10.2 Routed Com m..........................................................................................................................................................
unication to RTU & Access to Gatew ay 95
10.3 RTU Local Port..........................................................................................................................................................
Access, Netw orked Configurator & Spoofing Master Address 96
10.4 IP Netw orked..........................................................................................................................................................
RTUs & Duplicated RTU Personality 97
11 Using...................................................................................................................................
AGA12 Security Components - Copyright 98

3
 4 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

I Security Technical

©2013 Control Microsystems Inc.

All rights reserved.
Printed in Canada.
Version: 8.05.4
The information provided in this documentation contains general descriptions and/or technical
characteristics of the performance of the products contained herein. This documentation is
not intended as a substitute for and is not to be used for determining suitability or reliability of
these products for specific user applications. It is the duty of any such user or integrator to
perform the appropriate and complete risk analysis, evaluation and testing of the products
with respect to the relevant specific application or use thereof. Neither Schneider Electric nor
any of its affiliates or subsidiaries shall be responsible or liable for misuse of the information
contained herein. If you have any suggestions for improvements or amendments or have
found errors in this publication, please notify us.
No part of this document may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying, without express written permission of Schneider
Electric.
All pertinent state, regional, and local safety regulations must be observed when installing and
using this product. For reasons of safety and to help ensure compliance with documented
system data, only the manufacturer should perform repairs to components.
When devices are used for applications with technical safety requirements, the relevant
instructions must be followed. Failure to use Schneider Electric software or approved
software with our hardware products may result in injury, harm, or improper operating results.
Failure to observe this information can result in injury or equipment damage.

1 Technical Support
Support related to any part of this documentation can be directed to one of the following
support centers.
 Security Technical 5

Technical Support: The Americas

Available Monday to Friday 8:00am – 6:30pm Eastern Time
Toll free within North America 1-888-226-6876
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Technical Support: Australia

Inside Australia 1300 369 233
Email [email protected]

2 Safety Information
Read these instructions carefully, and look at the equipment to become familiar with the
device before trying to install, operate, or maintain it. The following special messages may
appear throughout this documentation or on the equipment to warn of potential hazards or to
call attention to information that clarifies or simplifies a procedure.

The addition of this symbol to a Danger or Warning safety label

indicates that an electrical hazard exists, which will result in personal
injury if the instructions are not followed.

This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential

personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
6 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

DANGER
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.

WARNING
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, can
result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, can
result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION
CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol, indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, can result in equipment damage..

PLEASE NOTE
Electrical equipment should be installed, operated, serviced, and maintained only by qualified
personnel. No responsibility is assumed by Schneider Electric for any consequences arising
out of the use of this material.
A qualified person is one who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and
operation of electrical equipment and the installation, and has received safety training to
recognize and avoid the hazards involved.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Do not use this product on machinery lacking effective point-of-operation guarding. Lack of
effective point-of-operation guarding on a machine can result in serious injury to the operator
of that machine.

CAUTION
EQUIPMENT OPERATION HAZARD

Verify that all installation and set up procedures have been completed.
Before operational tests are performed, remove all blocks or other temporary
holding means used for shipment from all component devices.
 Security Technical 7

Remove tools, meters, and debris from equipment.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in injury or equipment

damage.

Follow all start-up tests recommended in the equipment documentation. Store all equipment
documentation for future references.
Software testing must be done in both simulated and real environments.
Verify that the completed system is free from all short circuits and grounds, except those
grounds installed according to local regulations (according to the National Electrical Code in
the U.S.A, for instance). If high-potential voltage testing is necessary, follow
recommendations in equipment documentation to prevent accidental equipment damage.
Before energizing equipment:
Remove tools, meters, and debris from equipment.
Close the equipment enclosure door.
Remove ground from incoming power lines.
Perform all start-up tests recommended by the manufacturer.

OPERATION AND ADJUSTMENTS

The following precautions are from the NEMA Standards Publication ICS 7.1-1995 (English
version prevails):
Regardless of the care exercised in the design and manufacture of equipment or in the
selection and ratings of components, there are hazards that can be encountered if such
equipment is improperly operated.
It is sometimes possible to misadjust the equipment and thus produce unsatisfactory or
unsafe operation. Always use the manufacturer’s instructions as a guide for functional
adjustments. Personnel who have access to these adjustments should be familiar with the
equipment manufacturer’s instructions and the machinery used with the electrical
equipment.
Only those operational adjustments actually required by the operator should be accessible
to the operator. Access to other controls should be restricted to prevent unauthorized
changes in operating characteristics.

3 References
American Gas Association AGA12 Part 1 Recommendations (2006). See http://www.aga.org/our-
issues/security/Documents/0603REPORT12.PDF
AGA12-2 Protocol and Java Reference Application, see http://scadasafe.sourceforge.net/
Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3), see http://www.dnp.org/
8 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

IEC62351 Part 1 and Part 5 Standards (Available from IEC Webstore)

 Security Technical 9

4 Terminology
SCADA Security and its options for Encryption and Authentication can be complex.
Refer to this glossary of terms used in this document. For additional definitions related to SCADAPack
E, see SCADAPack E Technical Overview.

AGA12 Gateway RTU: An SCADAPack E RTU operating mode that performs encoding and decoding
between cleartext 9 and ciphertext 9 on behalf of other nodes in the network. Commonly used to
interface a secure AGA12 network to a cleartext master station. The DNP3 Host uses the AGA12
gateway feature of a SCADAPack ES to encypt plain text DNP3 messages frong from the Host to the
RTUs in the field. The same gateway decrypts the cipher text messages coming back from the field
RTUs to the Host.
AGA12 Node: A device providing SCADA Cryptographic Module (SCM) services in order to receive and
transmit secure data to the AGA12-2 standard.
Authentication: A challenge and reply exchange between two devices that provides them both with
confidence that the other device is who it claims to be.
Authority: An independent entity holding and providing security credentials. The SCADAPack E
Security Administrator 11 application is an example of a simple authority.
Challenger: A device attempting to authenticate 9 that a partner device is who it claims to be. See
also Responder 10 .
Cipher Suite: A set of cryptographic algorithms, keys, and parameters identified by a cipher suite
number. The AGA12 virtual SCM within each RTU maintains a mapping of every static session and every
open dynamic session to a cipher suite (see also session 11 )
Cipher text: Transmitted or received data that has been encoded (see also encoding 10 )
Cipher text Port: In the context of SCADAPack E RTUs, this is a communications port supporting
ciphertext DNP3. In the case of a AGA12 Gateway RTU, a ciphertext port may also support cleartext
DNP3 when operating in mixed mode.
Clear Device Port: Applies to SCADAPack E AGA12 Gateway RTU only (see AGA12 Gateway 9 ).
This port receives DNP3 data in cleartext and encodes it for transmission on a ciphertext port. A clear
device port transmits cleartext DNP3 data after it has been decoded from reception on a ciphertext port.
Cleartext: Data that has not been encoded (see also encoding 10 ). It may be received data, that is to
be transmitted ‘in-the-clear,’ data that is yet to be encoded, or data that is already decoded 9 .
Common Key: A cryptographic key value that is used amongst multiple entities to allow inter-operation.
e.g. a Group of controllers, e.g. each Configurator node.
Counterpart: An associated AGA12 device that, together with this device, form a pair for secure data
exchange.
CM: A Cryptographic Module (defined in the US Federal Information Processing Standard FIPS 140-2) is
an electronic component that is placed in-line on a communications channel and affords cryptographic
protection for the communications, including, but not limited to, encryption and authentication. The class
of such electronic devices is sometimes referred to as “bump-in-the-wire”.
Decoding: The process of checking data is signed correctly (not tampered with) and extracting the
original data from the obscured encrypted data. The algorithms for decoding are determined by the
Cipher Suite and security keys. Decoding is one of the tasks carried out by the SCADAPack E RTU’s
Virtual SCM receiving a message from another SCM. Also see Encoding 10
10 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Decryption: Translating Cipher Text 9 into Clear Text 9 using a cryptographic key 10 . I.e. converting
obscured data back into the original useful data
Default Key: Pre-assigned key or key mode (typically a factory set key 10 ) allowing devices to
communicate "out-of-the-box". For good security, keys that are different from the default key should be
used. In SCADAPack E refers to the security configuration mode for SCADAPack E Configurator keys
(cf Common Key 9 , Unique Key 11 )
Encoding: The process of encrypting and signing data to ensure its contents are obscured and
protected from tampering. The algorithms for Encoding are determined by the Cipher Suite and security
keys. This is one of the tasks carried out by the SCADAPack E RTU’s Virtual SCM sending a message
to another SCM.
Encryption: Translating Clear Text 9 into Cipher Text 9 using a cryptographic key 10 . I.e. obscuring
data so that it looks random in order to hide the content of the data. Also see Decryption 10
Key: In DNP3 Secure Authentication this is also known as the Update Key and encodes dynamic
session keys for authenticating devices. In AGA12 this is also known as the Encryption Key (to
distinguish it from the Mac Key) 10 . The Key is the common secret held by a pair of devices used for
obscuring data before transmission and retrieving data from obscured data stream.
Key Pair: the combination of the Key (encryption key) and Mac Key which as a pair form the common
secret held by AGA12 counterpart devices (when the Cipher Suite uses both encryption and verification
signing).
Local Access Port: A dedicated, local port supporting direct connection of a DNP3 configuration
terminal for local maintenance of the RTU. For RTUs using AGA12, this is the only port that
communicates cleartext DNP3 and is for physically local access only. DNP3 Secure Authentication
does not use the concept of a local access port on a controller (every port is secured).
Mac Key: This is the common secret held by a pair of devices and in used for digitally signing a data
stream to ensure it has not been tampered with.In SCADAPack E this refers to one of the AGA12 key
pairs 10 .
Master Key: The master key customizes the controller security configuration file generated by the
SCADAPack E Security Administrator application and is loaded into SCADAPack E RTUs that are to
operate on a given customer network, or portion of a customer network.
Master Station Host: The device in a SCADA network that most remote devices report to. It typically
initiates the majority of communication transactions in a network. In DNP3 Secure Authentication, the
Master Station (Host) natively supports the Secure Authentication objects that are use the establish
security with remote devices.
Mixed Mode: AGA12 Mixed Mode operation allows an SCM to simultaneously forward encrypted and
unencrypted communications between SCADA equipment. This permits a SCADA master equipped with
or connected to an SCM to communicate with a SCADA unit (e.g., RTU) that does not have an SCM.
Mixed mode operation can be disabled. Mixed mode can be used for SCADAPack E AGA12 Gateway
RTUs, and RTUs routing DNP3 cleartext.
Pass Phrase: In SCADAPack E the user enters this phrase to generate the Master Key 10 for a
system.
Responder: A device sending authentication 9 information to a partner device in reply, to prove it is
who it claims to be. See also Challenger 9 .
SCM: A SCADA Cryptographic Module is a Cryptographic Module (CM) designed to or configured to
operate on the communications channels between SCADA hosts and SCADA remote devices.
SCADAPack E telemetry supports a Virtual SCM as part of its operating system firmware, rather than
requiring an external (bump-in-the-wire) Electronic device.
 Security Technical 11

SCM Configuration: Every SCM has various configuration parameters that include an SCM address,
communication parameters, and static session information. SCADAPack E RTU Virtual SCMs can be
configured through command line text entry, through a plug in media module (e.g. Compact Flash card
on SCADAPack ES or SCADAPack ER), or through local USB peripheral communication port using
SCADAPack E Configurator (SCADAPack 300E). The security files for Compact Flash card or
SCADAPack E Configurator loading of the configuration is managed by a Windows® Security
Administrator application.
SCM Address: SCADAPack E RTU’s Virtual SCM address is obtained directly from the device’s
configured DNP3 node address. Every SCM on a shared or networked communications link needs to
have a unique SCM address (and therefore unique DNP3 address). Addresses in the range 1 – 65519
are valid addresses for both DNP3 and SCM. Address 0 is not a valid SCADAPack E SCM address and
can not be used as an SCADAPack E RTU DNP3 node address when using AGA12 security.
Security Administrator: The SCADAPack E application used by the person responsible for security
administration in a network. This application is a type of security Authority 9 that retains and provides
security configuration files for the rest of the system. It should be operated by corporate level security
administration personnel.
Session: A session is a bidirectional virtual communications channel established between a specific
pair of devices. In the case of AGA12 on SCADAPack E RTUs, a session is established between each
pair of SCADAPack E virtual SCM’s. A session has a type indicating it as static or dynamic. Static
sessions have cryptographic and other parameters that are configured in SCM configuration data.
Dynamic sessions have negotiated cryptographic parameters and vary with time and each message sent
on the session. Management of sessions is one of the tasks carried out by the SCADAPack E RTU’s
Virtual SCM. DNP3 similarly establishes a session for communication between two devices. Part of the
DNP3 session's information includes DNP3 Secure Authentication information.
SSPP: SCADA Security Protection Protocol – Defined by the AGA12-2 standard. This is the technical
name of the AGA12-2 protocol that transports session information and secured data between SCMs.
Unique Key: The SCADAPack E security mode requiring that SCADAPack E Configurator nodes be
individually secured (optional).
Update Key: DNP3 Secure Authentication terminology for the secret key 10 known to devices that
communicate with each other.
 12 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

5 Introduction
This document describes Integrated SCADA security for SCADAPack E RTU devices.

Audience
This document is for use by product users, system designers, and SCADA security administrators.
It is recommended that you have an understanding of DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12
Encryption.

Scope
This document contains user information as well as technical reference information. For information on
configuring the Security features, refer to the SCADAPack E Security Administrator User Manual and
SCADAPack E Configurator User Manual.
See the following for more information:
Standards 13

Operational Goals, Functionality Summary, & Standard RTU Operation 15

SCADAPack E RTU Security 17

Licensing 27

Key Management 28

User-based Authentication 33

Platforms
The following controllers support AGA12 Encryption security and DNP3 Secure Authentication:

SCADAPack 300E Controllers

SCADAPack ES
SCADAPack ER

SCADAPack E Security Components

The SCADAPack E security components include the following:
Security Administrator license file
Security Administrator project file
Controller Security configuration file
SCADAPack E Configurator Security file
 Security Technical 13

5.1 Standards
Standards
Security recommendations and standards of interest to utility sector markets include:
IEC 62351
DNP3 Secure Authentication
AGA12 suite

The DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 standards each aim to solve different security conditions.
DNP3's use of IEC62351 focuses on Authentication while AGA12 focuses on Encryption.
It is widely regarded that a combination of encryption and authentication services would provide optimum
protection scenarios for SCADA protocols.

IEC 62351 Standard

IEC 62351 standard specifies authentication of SCADA data transfer using digital signatures. The
objectives of this standard include providing only authenticated access, stopping eavesdropping,
spoofing, and playback, as well as intrusion detection. The security design specified in this standard is
integrated within a SCADA protocol, requiring end-to-end implementation in order to operate.
DNP3 uses the IEC 62351 standard for Secure Authentication.

DNP3 Secure Authentication

DNP3 Secure Authentication specification is based on authentication and challenge principles. These
security principles have been in place since the advent of dial-up Internet connections. These principles
include Hashed Message Authentication Code (HMAC)HMAC is a calculation performed on a message.
DNP3 authentication performs an HMAC on each critical message to authenticate it., in other words,
prove that you are who say you are by requiring challenge-reply, a common mechanism to stop replayA
replay attack is a form of network attack in which a valid data transmission is maliciously or fradulently
repeated or delayed. attacks. DNP3 Secure Authentication also incorporates security "key"
technology.

DNP3 Secure Authentication is designed to protect only actions that are deemed critical. This conserves
bandwidth and results in only minor processing results. DNP3 Secure Authentication uses protocol
Application Layer authentication when issuing the challenges, for example, controls or configuration
changes. A 'signature' in the form of a security key prevents tampering but does not include data
encryption. See How does AGA12 Work? 22 for information on encryption.

See the following for more information on DNP3 Secure Authentication:

What is DNP3 Secure Authentication? 18

How does DNP3 Secure Authentication Work? 18

AGA12 Suite
The AGA12 suite includes specific designs and reference applications for use with DNP3 as well as
other SCADA protocols. AGA12 is designed to operate outside of existing SCADA protocols (specifies
an additional protocol wrapper) so it s adaptable for implementation on existing systems and new
14 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

systems. External devices can be used to provide security. Typically sessions between a device
external to a Master Station (e.g. gateway or other bump-in-the-wire device) and Outstations (RTUs) are
secured. The IEEE is currently running projects to define AGA12 as part of substation communication
security.
See the following for more information on the AGA12 suite:
What is AGA12? 20

How does AGA12 Work? 22

Using AGA12 Security 33

 Security Technical 15

5.2 Operational Goals, Functionality Summary, & Standard RTU Operation

Operational Goals
The operational goals of the SCADAPack E RTU’s integrated security are to provide:
Message integrity protection
Defense against injection, modification, splicing, replay, reordering (but not Denial of-Service,
although it avoids making this worse)
Authentication
Confidentiality
Minimal number of messages additional to the SCADA messages, e.g., initiating sessions only
when SCADA units send a message the first time, no retries and no keep-alive messages

Functionality Summary
The Integrated Security functionality provided by the SCADAPack E RTUs includes Secure
Authentication with optional, integrated user credentials and maintenance software security.
Protection is provided on DNP3 communication ports operating on short-range (local) and long-range
(remote) links.
DNP3 Secure Authentication is provided to v2 of the DNP User Group Secure Authentication standard.
AGA12 Encryption for DNP3 is provided to the AGA12-2 recommendations.
DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 Encryption security on SCADAPack E RTUs applies only to
DNP3 communications. The following SCADAPack E RTU communications media support security:
DNP3 RS232 serial ports
Hayes Modem dial-up connections (DNP Secure Authentication only)
DNP3 RS422 serial ports
DNP3 RS485 serial ports
DNP3 / IP communications (TCP and UDP), including Ethernet, PPP, GPRS, 1xRTT, etc.
USB local connection (SCADAPack 300E controllers only)

Security is a licensed feature of SCADAPack E RTUs. When the controller is licensed for Encryption
AGA12 or Authentication SAv2, security operation is activated when a security configuration file is
loaded in to the device. The security configuration file is generated by the SCADAPack E Security
Administrator application.

Standard RTU Operation

Secure communications is enabled on a device when a security configuration has been loaded on the
RTU for the first time.
If a security configuration has not been loaded in to an SCADAPack E RTU, security will not be active
on its DNP3 ports, and the RTU operates in its standard (non-secured) way.
I.e. communications will operate as standard DNP3 on DNP communication ports until a security
configuration is loaded for the the first time. When operating this way, the RTU ports are referred to as
16 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Standard DNP3 Ports.

 Security Technical 17

5.3 SCADAPack E RTU Security

What is DNP3 Secure Authentication? 18

What is DNP3 Secure Authentication? 18

How does DNP3 Secure Authentication Work? 18

What is AGA12? 20

How does AGA12 Work? 22

Supported AGA12-2 Functionality 22

How do AGA12 encyption and DNP3 Secure Authentication Work? 24

Highlights of 24 SCADAPack E RTU Security 24

 18 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

5.3.1 What is DNP3 Secure Authentication?

DNP3 Secure Authentication is a bi-directional protocol that adds data integrity protection and user and
device authentication, resulting in protection between master stations (HMI, control servers), outstations
(PLCs, RTUs, IEDs) and Configuration software using the DNP3 protocol.
SCADAPack E RTUs support DNP3 Secure Authentication to the DNP User Group Secure
Authentication Specification v2.00
For more information, see:
How does DNP3 Secure Authentication Work? 18

5.3.2 How does DNP3 Secure Authentication Work?

DNP3 protocol specifies data link, transport, and application layers. DNP3 Secure Authentication
operates at the application layer. This means that DNP3 transactions are secured from end to end
through a system regardless of the communications protocol specified (TCP/IP, UDP/IP, serial) and
independent of the presence of communications gateways, routers, etc. It also means DNP3 can be
secured in hybrid networks, for example, through TCP/IP then to serial communications.
DNP3 Secure Authentication takes place in three scenarios:
Initialization 18

Periodic 18

Critical Function Code Requests 18

Initialization
When initiating a session, DNP3 Secure Authentication authenticates that the master station and
outstation are who they claim to be. This scenario is designed to prevent spoofing, replay, and other
forms of cyber attacks. This is accomplished using a unique session key (dynamic) derived from the
pre-shared secret keys known by both devices (static Update key).

Periodic
Once a session is established, the master station and outstation periodically verify again who they claim
to be to prevent hijacking and other attacks. The default SCADAPack E authentication period is 30
minutes. The maximum periodic authentication period is 14 days. A new (dynamic) session key is
generated and exchanged during each periodic update.

Critical Function Code Requests

Messages that are regarded as "critical" operations are challenged by the receiver, asking the requester
for security credentials. The receiver needs to gain confidence that the requester is who he says he is,
before proceeding to perform the request.

Both non-critical and critical message transactions are shown in the picture to illustrate the difference
between the unchallenged message, whose operation is the same as the standard DNP3 protocol
without security, and the challenged message that utilizing the DNP3 Secure Authentication
mechanism.
 Security Technical 19

See Challenged Functions 36 for a list of the critical function codes challenged by the SCADAPack E
RTU.

Further transaction scenarios are detailed in the DNP3Specification Volume 2 Supplement 1

- Secure Authentication document available to DNP User Group members. See www.dnp.org

Use of Security Keys

DNP3 Secure authentication uses a cryptographic key technically known as the "Update Key"
for securing messages. This static key is the pre-shared "secret" between a master device
and the outstation device.
From the Update key, a dynamic "Session Key" is created that protects critical operational
data. A summary of this data flow is shown in the following picture.
 20 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

This data flow applies to DNP3 security initialization 18 , periodic 18 key changes and
challenged critical requests 18 .

Aggressive Mode
The data flow described in the above picture also applies to DNP3 Aggressive Mode 41
transactions.
Once security credentials are established through a previous critical request 18 , aggressive
mode allows the challenge data to be appended to the critical request message without
having to go through the full challenge / reply exchange, as shown in the following picture.

5.3.3 What is AGA12?

The American Gas Association (AGA), in a project for the Gas Technology Institute, formed a working
group to develop a cryptography standard to protect SCADA data communications from cyber attacks.
The working group developed AGA12, which is a suite of cryptography standards that recommend how
to achieve this.
The AGA12 standard consists of four documents. Each document addresses different aspects of
SCADA data transmission protection. AGA12-2 details the requirements to build interoperable
cryptographic modules to protect SCADA communications for low-speed legacy SCADA systems and
maintenance ports. AGA12-2 is one component of cryptographic protection for SCADA communications.

AGA12-2 specifically defines a protocol (SSPP) for use in establishing connection, transporting,
encrypting and signing serial SCADA protocols including DNP3. It also defines its operation on a device
known as a SCADA Cryptographic Module (SCM).
AGA12 includes specific designs and reference applications for use with DNP3 as well as other SCADA
protocols. AGA12 is designed to operate outside of existing SCADA protocols because AGA12
specifies and additional protocol wrapper. It is adaptable to implement on existing systems and new
systems.External devices can be used to provide security. Typically sessions between a device external
 Security Technical 21

to a master station, for example, gateway or other bump-in-the-wire device (BITW) and outstations
(RTUs) are secured.
SCADAPack E RTUs support AGA12-2 protocol through a Virtual SCADA Cryptographic Module (SCM),
integrated with the various operational aspects of the RTU. The implementation adheres to the AGA12-2
recommendations and inter-operates with the AGA12-2 reference application. It is for interoperabilitye
with other AGA12-2 compliant devices.
See the following sections for more details:
How does AGA12 Work? 22

Using AGA12 Security 33

 22 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

5.3.4 How does AGA12 Work?

The AGA12 suite uses cryptography to protect SCADA communications. Essentially, it provides a
means to take clear text messages and convert them into unintelligible forms (ciphertexts) using a
secret number. These encrypted messages can be sent over an insecure connection without the threat
of interception and being read by a user or device other than that to which the message was sent. Once
the message arrives at its secure location, it is deciphered using the same secret number. This secret
number is called a key. The figure below illustrates how an AGA12 message is handled during the
encryption and decryption processes:

AGA12 incorporates security key technology. This technology is based on open cryptography
standards, for example, AES encryption. As well as encrypting data content with security keys, AGA12
validates connections between users using secret keys. The use of these keys allows AGA12 to protect
messages by authenticating partner devices and randomizing transactions between the devices.
AGA12 defines a device as a SCADA Cryptographic Module (SCM).
For more details on how AGA12 works, see:
Description of Security Facilities 35

Using AGA12 Security 33

5.3.5 Supported AGA12-2 Functionality

Notable AGA12-2 standard functionality provided in the SCADAPack E RTU includes:

SSPP (SCADA Security Protection Protocol): The ‘SCM address’ is equated with the existing
‘DNP3 node address’ to reduce configuration effort. The SCADAPack E RTU routing architecture
already requires uniqueness. DNP3 provides node addresses in the range 0-65520. SSPP allows
SCM addressing in the range 1-65535. The unique address range that should be used for DNP3 /
SCM addressing is: 1-65520. A limited ability to override a destination SCM address is
provided, primarily to permit AGA12 Gateway operation (i.e. the destination of RTU messages is
typically the Master Station DNP3 address and is different from the SCM address of the AGA12
Gateway).
Ciphersuites (encryption algorithm / hash algorithms) supported are:
AES128-CTR / HMACSHA-1 (suite 1)
AES128-CTR / HMACSHA-256 (suite 4)
Suite 1 uses 128-bit encryption with 160-bit verification signing, while suite 4 uses 128-bit encryption
with 256-bit verification signing. Suite 4 provides better security but more computation.
 Security Technical 23

Concurrent mixed mode operation of cleartext DNP3 protocol and AGA12-2 SSPP protocol on the
same link, for DNP3 (& SSPP) routing and AGA12 Gateway operation.
Static session negotiation for dynamic session exchanges (standard AGA12)
Dynamically changing on-air keys for maximum protection
Association numbers, Session ids, validity time windows (standard AGA12)
Fixed signaling character and byte-stuffing characters (as per AGA12-2 reference application for
DNP3)
Counterpart List detailing nodes permitted to interact with this node, key definitions, time windows
Communication synchronization to re-establish AGA12 sessions following expiry of sessions
(standard AGA12 feature)

Omissions
The SCADAPack E RTU does not currently provide the following AGA12-2 facilities:
Selection of AES128-CBC mode (Cipher Block Chaining) and session establishment BEG message
[AGA12-2 changes from March 2006]. These will be supported in a future version of the SCADAPack E
RTU.
Selection of AES128-PE (low SCM latency, high computation variant of AES encryption). This
methodology is useful for SCM “bump in the wire” external devices to minimize re-transmission latency.
This is not a consideration where systems deal with only remote SCADAPack E RTU’s Virtual SCM
devices, as there is no serial retransmission of cleartext messages. Where the SCADAPack E RTU
AGA12 Gateway transmits cleartext data, this is typically at a higher data (e.g. via Ethernet). AES128-
PE may be supported in a future version of the SCADAPack E RTU.
Selectable signaling characters and byte-stuffing characters. These are not available for user
configuration, rather fixed as per the description in Section Fixed AGA12-2 Parameters 63 .
BROADCAST or MANAGEMENT dynamic or static session data. Management session handling may
be provided in a future version of SCADAPack E RTU.
SCM Bank support (for modem banks)
Instruct an SCM to establish a dynamic session – manually forcing a session to open to another SCM
device is not supported
RCA, CAR commands (address request & response) are not supported by the SCADAPack E RTU
Optimization of SSPP operation for PSTN and other long-connection-establishment media. This may be
provided in a future version of SCADAPack E RTU.
 24 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

5.3.6 How do DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 Encryption Work together?

When used together, AGA12 provides the encryption and session validation security facilities,
while DNP3 Secure Authentication provides the challenge-reply authentication security
facilities. Both AGA12 and DNP3 Secure Authentication standards are relevant to DNP3
communications and SCADAPack E RTUs.
To suit retrofit of existing systems, AGA12 and DNP3 Secure Authentication can be
configured without affecting the control system infrastructure and without an interruption in
the system's operation. Retrofits can be achieved without compromising communications
between the RTUs and master stations.

5.3.7 Highlights of SCADAPack E RTU Security

For security management, a Security Administrator application allows the creation of a security
management collection, containing security configuration for a whole system. It can generate Master
Key file, RTU security configuration files, and SCADAPack E Configurator security files. These can be
written directly to a media interface.
Generally system security is setup in the following ways:
1) have unique security keys for each remote RTU that communicates only with the master station
host (most secure), or
2) have a common security key across a Group of controllers that interact together or are in some
collection with the master station host (e.g. Northern RTU sites). Different groups have unique
security keys (pretty good security)
3) have a common security key across a whole system, i.e. one Group (most convenient, but least
secure)

Option 1 has the benefit that someone learning one key does not have access to the whole system.
Similarly, Peer nodes can be restricted as to what other Peer nodes they can talk to. This provides
maximum security but means additional management of keys.
Option 3 is simpler to manage, but if the common key becomes known, all RTUs are compromised.
Option 2 is a compromise offering pretty good securty, but may be necessary where there is
interaction between peer RTUs (for example). SCADAPack E DNP3 Secure Authentication or
AGA12 Encryption requires that all interacting devices share the same keys (e.g. RTU 1 & 2
communicate Peer-to-peer, both talk to a master station host. All 3 devices need to use the same
key in this case).

Licensed RTUs can operate as end-nodes receiving AGA12 encrypted DNP3 frames and responding
with AGA12 encrypted DNP3 frames. Similarly they can operate send and receive DNP3 Secure
Authentication messages.
RTUs can be DNP3 and AGA12 routers on any communications media. No special configurations are
required for this. A router passes on AGA12 frames or DNP3 secure authentication frames. This is
particularly useful for wide area radio networks.
SCADAPack E RTUs also support encryption of Unsolicited, Peer DNP3 and DNP3 Master (data
concentrator) transmissions with both DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 encryption security.
 Security Technical 25

Remote configuration of security parameters can be granted through the Security Administrator to
allow security configuration files to be loaded remotely. This feature can be disabled for increased
security protection. In this case it is only possible to configured security through the following
mechanisms:
- Compact Flash card plugged in to SCADAPack ES or SCADAPack ER RTUs (with security
configuration files loaded)
- via SCADAPack E Configurator to SCADAPack 300E via USB peripheral communications
Configuration files containing the security keys and other security parameters can be put on a media
interface for direct deployment to RTUs (e.g. Compact Flash card for SCADAPack ES / SCADAPack
ER), USB memory stick for loading to a controller by SCADAPack E Configurator, etc). Depending on
the arrangement of RTU groups, this allows multiple RTUs to be configured from the same single
media (“Security Key”). In the case of SCADAPack ES / SCADAPack ER, a Compact Flash card
could be plugged in & removed from each RTU in the same Group in turn.
DNP3 Secure Authentication diagnostics and AGA12 Diagnostics are available through the
SCADAPack E RTU diagnostic mechanisms (serial diagnostic port, Telnet, diagnostic file capture).

DNP3 Secure Authentication

A mixture of unsecured DNP3 devices and DNP3 Secure Authentication devices can coexist on the
same network. The Master station needs to be aware of the configuration requirements of individual
devices, which includes security configuration.
SCADAPack E Configurator can communicate directly to devices configured with DNP3 Secure
Authentication, providing the SCADAPack E Configurator node and user is authorized (configured by
the Security Administrator and loaded to devices).
Where both AGA12 and DNP3 Secure Authentication is configured, communication from
SCADAPack E Configurator nodes connected remotely on the network can optionally require
SCADAPack E Configurator nodes and users to be authorized, but requires communications to be
routed via an AGA12 Gateway RTU.
SCADAPack E Configurator Security can be setup in a number of ways:
A) optionally require the use of individual Username / Password logins to authenticate with RTUs.
Username/password lists are configured in all RTU devices in this case.
B) Choose one of three SCADAPack E Configurator Security modes:
B.1) Default Key mode - where the Configurator and RTUs will communicate out-of-the-box (most
convenient but least secure)
B.2) Common Key mode - where a new key is provided to all Configurators and all RTUs, disabling
the user of the Default Key and configuring a single specific key (convenient with better security)
B.3) Unique Key mode - where all Configurators have an individually unique key and all RTUs are
aware of the authorized configurators (best security)

AGA12 Encryption
SCADAPack E RTUs support defining a SCADA Cryptographic Module (SCM). This AGA12
functionality is integrated with the RTU’s serial port communication drivers, DNP3 stack, and IP
stack.
To provide AGA12 encryption features or DNP3 Secured Authentication, a controller feature licence
27 needs to be installed.

RTUs can be setup to operate in AGA12 GATEWAY mode, receiving cleartext DNP3 and encrypting
to AGA12 prior to transmission on a communications channel. Conversely a gateway can receive
26 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

encrypted DNP3 response frames and decipher them to cleartext DNP3 for transmission back to the
requester. Typically this gateway mode is used via serial or network links for host system
communications. Gateway mode can be used for central maintenance access to remote RTUs and
for DNP3 masters not supporting integrated AGA12 functionality.
Communication networks can operate in AGA12 MIXED MODE as described by the AGA12-2
standard, allowing a mixture of cleartext DNP3 and encrypted AGA12 frames to operate on the
same network. Gateways setup to operate in MIXED MODE allow the user to decide if the risk
profile for some RTU's indicates they aren't worth securing and therefore can continue to run in
cleartext DNP3. This also allows systems to be transitioned from cleartext DNP3 to secure AGA12
systems in a planned migration strategy.
Encrypted data is supported on multiple communications media: direct serial / keyed serial /
Ethernet (UDP / TCP) / GPRS / 1xRTT. AGA12 Encryption for PSTN is not currently supported in
SCADAPack E RTUs. DNP3 Secure Authentication can operate with PSTN communications.
Every RTU configured with AGA12 security provides a Local Access port. The provides
communication using cleartext DNP3 - this is primarily for use of SCADAPack E Configurator, but
may also be used by other devices locally [securing this port is a physical security issue]. All other
RTU DNP3 ports are AGA12 encryption protected (for routing, backup links, etc) when AGA12
security is configured.
SCADAPack E Configurator and other package(s) using DNP3 protocol can communicate with
remote protected RTUs through a central AGA12 Gateway RTU.
 Security Technical 27

5.4 Licensing
To license either DNP3 Secure Authentication or AGA12 Encryption for DNP3, you need a controller
feature licence. Typically, this is done when the controller is purchased, although a controller feature
licence can be purchased and added at a later time. The controller feature licence file is deployed using
SCADAPack E Configurator.
For more information on licensing RTUs, see the SCADAPack E Telemetry Operational Reference
manual.
 28 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

5.5 Key Management

SCADAPack E Configurator Key Mode 29

Configurator Key Mode 29

Compact Flash Entry and UTIL LED 31

Local USB Configuration 32

 Security Technical 29

5.5.1 SCADAPack E Configurator Key Modes

There are three modes for security keys when securing access from SCADAPack E Configurator to
SCADAPack E controllers. These modes are:

Default Key Mode

The default key mode is the easiest option to use and maintain. The disadvantage of using a default key
is the same as its convenience: it works out-of-the-box, and so it provides the weakest level of security.
The advantage of this mode is that there is no need to manage Configurator security files because the
secret key is known by SCADAPack E controllers and SCADAPack E Configurator, by default. It does
help with protecting against external attempts to access the protocol, but not against copies of the
SCADAPack E Configurator software. This mode does, however, still allow user-based authentication to
be selected in SCADAPack E Configurator and the controller as a separate layer of security.
The default key mode is provided for simplifying initial access to controllers, however it is strongly
recommended that you not use the factory default key mode in field installations.

Common Key Mode

To simplify key management for small systems, the common key mode provides more security than the
default key mode. The common key mode requires that the same Configurator security configuration file
be deployed to every instance of SCADAPack E Configurator. The advantage of this is that it means you
only have to maintain one key for all of your SCADAPack E Configurator installations. The disadvantage
of this is that if a laptop with SCADAPack E Configurator is compromised, the security configuration
files needs to be updated on all instances of SCADAPack E Configurator, as well as on every controller
that is associated with SCADAPack E security features.
The common key is generated as part of the Security Administrator project settings. Like the default key
and unique key modes, this option does allow user-based authentication in SCADAPack E Configurator
and the controller.

Unique Key Mode

The unique key mode provides the highest level of security. Each instance of SCADAPack E
Configurator is identified using a specific security configuration file. This file is tied to a Machine ID to
restrict operation of the software to authorized PCs only. You can add, edit, or remove instances of
SCADAPack E Configurators from the system, but similarly needs to update every controller with revised
settings. The Security Administrator generates a unique security key for each instance of SCADAPack
E Configurator.
An advantage of using this mode over the common key mode is that if a laptop is compromised, there is
no need to update the security configuration file for each instance of SCADAPack E Configurator. You
can remove the compromised SCADAPack E Configurator from the Security Administrator and new
controller security configuration files can be generated and deployed to the RTUs.

5.5.2 Master Key Configuration

The security infrastructure is designed so that master keys are deployed once during the
lifetime of a system from the Security Administrator application to controller devices.
It is highly recommended that a trusted individual responsible for system security deploy the
master keys to controller devices before releasing them for field installation.
30 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Copies of the master key file need to be removed from portable media and devices following
deployment. To ensure the integrity of the security system, you need to take all possible
steps to keep the password phrase, master key file, and its deployment secure.
To deploy a generated master key file to SCADAPack ES or SCADAPack ER controllers, you
need to do so from a CompactFLASH card. You cannot deploy it from the Security
Administration application.
To deploy a generated master key file to a SCADAPack 300E controller, you need to use
SCADAPack E Configurator through the USB peripheral port.

The master key contains the security boundary for RTUs and security administration for one
organization or a part of an organization. What the master key does is that it customizes the
controller security configuration file that the Security Administrator generates so that the file is
system or organization specific. The RTU reads this information.
If required, the Security Administrator can generate new master keys. This is done by
entering a new pass phraseUsing a one-way has function to transform an arbitrary length test
string ito a psuedo-random bit string is a technique called key crunching. The text string is
often referred to as a pass phrase (sometimes written as passphrase). The reason for using
passphrases is the avoidance of ever recording un-encrypted keying information, to prevent
its compromise. . It is a critical piece in the security chain and needs to be kept secret.
Whenever you enter the pass phrase, you need to enter it exactly the same each time.
 Security Technical 31

The pass phrase is stored on the security administration computer independently of the
Security Administrator project. The pass phrase needs to be re-entered on every Security
Administrator you have installed.
In addition, the Security Administrator provides the means to export a master key file. The
master key file is called system.key.
When you choose to generate a new master key, you will need to update the master key
locally at each RTU device using this key (as described above and shown in the picture).

5.5.3 Compact Flash Entry and UTIL LED

Using Compact Flash to load security configuration is supported by the following RTU hardware:
SCADAPack ES
SCADAPack ER

Security Configuration for these devices can be loaded from a file on the plug-in media “security key” (i.e.
CompactFlash card). Insertion of a card in to the SCADAPack E RTU is automatically detected.
If security is licensed on the RTU, the media root directory is checked for the security configuration file:
SYSTEM.RTK

If the RTU does not find this file, the RTU encryption information remains unchanged.

Like KEYS for a door or any other form of security, safe-keeping and distribution of AGA12 keys is
necessary.

UTIL LED
The SCADAPack ES and SCADAPack ER RTU hardware includes a "UTIL" LED that indicates the state
of a completed operation on the Compact FLASH Utility port.
Upon successfully loading a security configuration file from the Compact FLASH port the "UTIL" LED
flashes alternately on and off at a steady rate for 5 seconds.
 32 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

5.5.4 Local USB Configuration

The following RTU hardware allows the use of USB peripheral interfaces, locally, for security
configuration entry:
SCADAPack 300E RTUs

Security Configuration for these devices can be loaded using the USB peripheral interface and
SCADAPack E Configurator, from a security configuration file generated by the Security Administrator.
This file is called:
SYSTEM.RTK

Like KEYS for a door or any other form of security, safe-keeping and distribution of security keys is
necessary.

SCADAPack E Configurator
For SCADAPack 300E RTUs, SCADAPack E Configurator provides a facility for loading the security
configuration file through the USB interface. Use the Transfer > Load Security Config. File menu item to
do so. It prompts you to choose the security configuration file.
 Security Technical 33

5.6 User-based Authentication

This feature is only available when DNP3 Secure Authentication is licensed and configured.
To enhance security when multiple SCADAPack E Configurator users are present in a
system, the Controller Security configuration file can include a user list.
The SCADAPack E Security Administrator application allows configuration of users,
providing a list of the usernames (and passwords associated with the usernames). This is
configured in RTUs using the Group security configuration files.
The User-based authentication feature uses the SCADAPack E RTU to act as an
authentication server for access requests from SCADAPack E Configurator. When an
access request is received from the SCADAPack E Configurator, the RTU uses DNP3
Secure Authentication keys and the usernames and passwords.
When a user accesses a system using SCADAPack E Configurator with User-based
Authentication enabled, username and password credentials are entered into SCADAPack E
Configurator. The controller verifies that the username and password match the information
entered on the security configuration user list. When this information matches, the user is
authenticated and the action is permitted. If the information does not match, the controller
rejects the attempted action and SCADAPack E Configurator displays a message.

6 Telnet and FTP Authentication

The Telnet and FTP applications provided on SCADAPack E as part of the IP management suite can be
insecure if not externally secured. This is because transmissions in these TCP/IP application protocols
transmit their data, including usernames and passwords, in clear text 9 .
It is strongly recommended that Telnet and FTP are DISABLED when not in use. Leaving these two
applications enabled creates a security vulnerability if the remote IP connection to an RTU is not
secured using another means.
To determine if your Telnet and FTP settings are enabled, check the SCADAPack E Configurator TCP/
IP property page.

7 Using SCADAPack E Security

The following sections describe configuration and the use of SCADAPack E security facilities.
An individual RTU's security settings can be configured by plugging a media interface into the RTU, for
example, a CompactFlash card (for SCADAPack ES and SCADAPack ER) or by direct location
connection of SCADAPack E Configurator through a USB peripheral port, for example, for SCADAPack
300E RTUs).
Alternatively, the Security Configuration may permit it to be loaded remotely. This allows remote
maintenance of security configurations from SCADAPack E Configurator and Master Station Host
systems such as ClearSCADA.
See Section Security Administration 69 for information on Security Administration and plug-in media.

Description of Security Facilities 35

DNP3 Secure Authentication 36

34 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

AGA12 Encryption 44

Security Considerations 68
 Security Technical 35

7.1 Description of Security Facilities

In general terms, security facilities are provided using the following mechanisms:
a system using DNP3 Authentication is secured through Groups where a security key (Group's
Common Key) is shared between outstations and the Master Station Host (requires DNP3 Secure
Authentication at the master station);
a system using AGA12 is secured using SCM (SCADA Cryptographic Module) devices. In the case of
SCADAPack E RTUs, a virtual SCM 10 is integrated with the RTU (this operates via an AGA12
Gateway RTU independent of the master station);
a system using DNP3 Authentication and AGA12 Encryption concurrently is secured using an AGA12
Gateway RTU and Master Station Host supporting DNP3 Secure Authentication. The common Group
key and AGA12 Encryption Key is used by the outstation and the AGA12 Gateway RTU. The Group
key is used by the Master Station Host and RTUs.

The Security Administrator application is used to generate Security Configuration files for SCADAPack E
controllers and SCADAPack E Configurator nodes.
 36 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.2 DNP3 Secure Authentication

DNP3 Secure Authentication operates at the DNP3 Application Layer.

Where Master Station Host to RTU controller security is desired, the Master Station Host must natively
support DNP3 Secure Authentication.
Licensing and enabling DNP3 Secure Authentication on the SCADAPack E RTU secures DNP3
interfaces (serial ports, Ethernet ports, USB on SCADAPack 300E RTUs), including communication with
SCADAPack E Configurator software.
SCADAPack E RTUs support DNP3 Secure Authentication when operating as a Data Concentrator
communicating with remote outstations.

SCADAPack E RTUs also support DNP3 Secure Authentication when operating with peer to peer
communications with other outstations.
SCADAPack E Data Concentrator and Peer communication security relies on inter-communicating
devices to be in the same security Group. i.e. use the same security keys to configure their
communication. For example, the same key value needs to be used at the Master Station host, data
concentrator, remote RTUs, as part of the same Group.
DNP3 Secure Authentication operates using a Challenge / Response security model. Critical operations
are challenged by a node when it receives a message to perform a critical operation.
Challenged Functions 36

DNP3 Security Settings 38

Aggressive Mode 41

Vulnerabilities Addressed 43

7.2.1 Challenged Functions

When DNP3 Secure Authentication is active on an SCADAPack E RTU, it challenges the mandatory
DNP3 (critical) function codes and several of the DNP3 optional function codes. I.e. The RTU challenges
the operation of a rejecter whenever it sends any of these function codes. (Requester could be a Master
Station host, Data Concentrator, Peer device or Configurator tool).
 Security Technical 37

The following DNP3 function codes are challenged by the SCADAPack E RTU when received from a
Master device:

DNP3
Function
Code
2 Write
3 Select
4 Operate
5 Direct Operate
13 Cold Restart
14 Warm Restart
15 Initialize Data
20 Enabled Unsolicited Responses
21 Disable Unsolicited Responses
22 Assign Class
24 Record Current Time
 38 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

25 Open File
27 Delete File

7.2.2 Security Settings

A number of security settings can be adjusted by the Security Administrator for DNP3 Secure
Authentication interoperability and security performance.
Security settings for the SCADAPack E controllers are set on the Security Adminstrator's Group page.

Allow Update of Security File

Common Key
This is the security key (static DNP3 Update Key) common to devices in this security Group. It can be
generated by the Security Administrator application or generated externally and entered in this field on
the Security Administrator.
Devices that use this key may include Master Station Host, Data Concentrators, Remote RTUs and
IEDs, Peer RTU devices.
(This key is also used by AGA12 Encryption 44 )
 Security Technical 39

DNP3 Algorithms
HMAC
This is the security algorithm used for "signing" security messages to confirm they have not been
tampered with. The setting of this field needs to be the same on each device using the Common Key 38 .
This setting applies to DNP3 interfaces on the SCADAPack E RTU.
Choose one of the algorithms:
SHA-1 truncated to 4 octets (serial)
SHA-1 truncated to 10 octets (networked)
SHA-256 truncated to 8 octets (serial)
SHA-256 truncated to 16 octets (networked)

The SHA-256 algorithms are more secure than the SHA-1 algorithms but are more RTU processing
intensive. Algorithms with more octets are more secure, but cause longer messages (using more
bandwidth) for critical messages.
It is recommended to use one of the algorithms with a (serial) indicator where the primary
communications interface protection is being deployed on is DNP3 serial ports.
It is recommended to use one of the algorithms with a (network ) indicator where the primary
communications is a network interface (Ethernet, PPP, etc).

Key Wrap
This is the security algorithm used for encrypting the security exchanges that set the dynamic session
key from the static DNP3 Update Key. The setting of this field needs to be the same on all devices using
the Common Key 38 .
Only the AES-128 algorithm is presently supported.

DNP3 Session Keys

These settings control how the session key regularly changes (also known as key rotation). Changing
the session key is a very large part of security strategy. It stops large volumes of data using the same
cryptographic parameters (which can lead to the ability to learn the session key).
Session keys will be renegotiated when either of the Change Interval or Change Count criteria is met.
Whichever criteria is met first will cause the renegotiation, then checking for both criteria is restarted.
Change Interval
When enabled, this interval sets the time period for which the DNP3 dynamic session key is valid. After
this time, the session key is renegotiated.
Change Count
This is the number of times a session key can be used before it is renegotiated.
40 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

DNP3 Aggressive Mode

Accepts Requests
Determines whether the controller will accept Aggressive Mode requests from a master device sending
critical controls. If Aggressive Mode is disabled, then an aggressive mode request will the rejected by
the RTU. The master should use, or be configured to use, standard challenge-reply security messages
in this case. The setting of this field needs to be the same on each device using the Common Key 38 .
See Aggressive Mode 41 for more information.

Issues Requests
Determines whether the controller will send Aggressive Mode requests when communicating as a DNP3
Master (e.g. Data Concentrator to remote outstations or IEDs, Peer-to-peer with another RTU). This
setting applies to communications initiated by the RTU. If a remote device rejects an aggressive mode
request, authentication will be unsuccessful. Disable the Aggressive Mode - Issues Requests setting if
there are authentication issues. The setting of this field must be the same on all devices using the
Common Key 38 .

See Aggressive Mode 41 for more information.

Advanced DNP3 Options

Challenge Data Length
This sets the number of bytes of pseudo-random challenge data used in session key negotiation and
authentication challenge messages.
The minimum length of challenge data is 4 octets. The maximum SCADAPack E length for challenge
data is 40 octets. The larger the challenge data the better the security but the more overhead on security
establishment and challenge messages.
The setting of this field needs to be the same on each device using the Common Key 38 . This setting
may be a global setting on some devices, thereby requiring a whole system to operate with the same
value.
Session Key Length

The size of the dynamic session key used in session key negotiation and protecting critical message
challenges.
The minimum length of session keys is 128-bits (16 octets).
The session key length can be selected from one of the following on the SCADAPack E RTU: 128-bits,
192-bits, 256-bits, 384-bits, 512-bits, 1024-bits.
The larger the session key the better security, but large session keys have more overhead on security
establishment, and are more RTU processing intensive.
The setting of this field needs to be the same on each device using the Common Key 38 .
Maximum Error Count
This sets the number of consecutive security conditions for which the SCADAPack E RTU will return
errors. After this number of errors, security conditions are silently discarded. This mechanism attempts
to alleviate denial of service issues.
 Security Technical 41

In a noisy network environment it may be necessary to increase this count for consistent security
exchanges. The higher this number the more prone the communications is to disruption if a device is
subject to denial of service incident.
This setting affects only the RTU for which it is configured.

7.2.3 Aggressive Mode

Aggressive Mode is a security configuration, set by the Security Administrator. It is either

enabled or disabled.
It allows challenge data to be appended to a critical request message without having to go
through the full challenge / response exchange, as shown in the following picture. I.e. it is a
more efficient short-form method of providing authentication information in critical
transactions.
When enabled, Authentication mode is not used immediately. In conformance with DNP3's
use of the IEC62351 13 standard, security credentials need to first be confirmed between the
devices through a full authentication challenge / reply transaction. I.e. the first challenge of a
critical operation uses a full authentication challenge / response transaction exchange.
Subsequent critical 18 operations can then use aggressive mode.
42 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

It is equally secure to operate DNP3 Secure Authentication transactions with Aggressive

Mode enabled or disabled. It is more bandwidth efficient to operate with it enabled when there
are multiple controls issued in a single session.
A configuration option is provided for Aggressive Mode as a requirement of the IEC62351 13
standard.
 Security Technical 43

7.2.4 Vulnerabilities Addressed

Outstation security modes can be changed remotely, for convenience, if so enabled. For highest
security disable this in the SCADAPack E Security Administrator application. Security configuration
then requires Physical Access.
Setting a Master Key requires Physical Access.
The RTU's general configuration file does not hold a copy of security information such as keys or
security modes. Key configurations are stored in encrypted format.
When using Peer communications, security considerations are as needed as enabling secure
communication with a master station. In SCADAPack E, security configurations require peer nodes to
use the same Common Key (e.g. configured by using the same Security configuration file).

Remote I/O communication is not authenticated. When the RTU uses Remote I/O and is connected to a
DNP3 Secure Authentication network it is recommended that the Remote I/O not use this same
connection. For example:
The Main RTU uses the ETH 1 port for connection with the DNP3 Secure Authentication network
and uses ETH 2 port for Remote I/O.
The Main RTU uses a serial for connection with the DNP3 Secure Authentication network and ETH 1
for Remote I/O.
 44 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3 AGA12 Encryption

There are two broad ways an RTU may be used with AGA12 encryption:
As an AGA12-2 Node RTU
As an AGA12 Gateway

A number of DNP3 communication port types are used when security is active on SCADAPack E RTUs.
These are described in more detail throughout this Section. In summary the port types are:
AGA12 Ciphertext ports
One DNP3 Local Access Port
One DNP3 Clear Device Port (AGA12 Gateway only)

AGA12 Node RTU 45

AGA12 Gateway and Session Establishment 47

AGA12 Gateway RTU 49

Secure Communications and Node Operation 52

Typical System Layout 54

Addressing and Local Communication 55

Remote RTUs Communicating using an AGA12 Gateway 56

Operating as a Data Concentrator 57

Example Configurations 58

AGA12 Parameters 60
 Security Technical 45

7.3.1 AGA12 Node RTU

The majority of SCADAPack E RTUs in an AGA12 Encryption secured system will operate as AGA12
Node RTUs. This includes RTUs whose functions are:
End node devices communicating with Master Station(s)
End node devices communicating with Peer node devices
Routing devices that pass messages between RTU sub-networks:
AGA12-2 frame routing
Cleartext DNP3 frame routing (where Mixed Mode is enabled)

Figure 5.2: AGA12 Node as an RTU End Node Device

AGA12 Node RTUs are configured (through the SCADAPack E DNP3 Network Routing Table) with the
SCM address (DNP3 destination address) of the AGA12 Gateway through which they communicate with
the Master Station. The route entry’s AGA12 field needs to be set to one of the AGA12 Gateway
settings (AGA12 GW1, AGA12 GW2, ...).
The SCM address of the Gateway is itself set through the Security Administrator software, and security
configurations loaded to the AGA12 Node RTUs include configurations for up to five (5) AGA12 Gateway
devices in a system. Typically the AGA12 Node RTU's gateway will be selected by choosing AGA12
GW1 in the route tables AGA12 field. Check with security administration personnel if you are unsure of
the configuration to use for a specific AGA12 Node RTU.

Message Routing
46 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Figure 5.3: AGA12 Node as a Routing Device

Message routing is a standard feature of SCADAPack E RTUs.

AGA12 frames are routed according to the RTU’s DNP Network Routing Table rules. When simply
routing AGA12 frames, the AGA12 setting in the route table is not used, and security Counterpart List
entries are not required in the RTU.
I.e. routing AGA12 follows the same rules in the RTU as for routing of DNP3 frames.

Figure 5.4: AGA12 Node as a Routing Device in Mixed Mode

Message routing is a standard feature of SCADAPack E RTUs. An AGA12 Node can route both AGA12
frames and DNP3 frames when it is operating in MIXED MODE.
AGA12 and DNP3 frames are routed according to the RTU’s DNP Network Routing Table rules. When
routing AGA12 and DNP3 frames, the AGA12 setting in the route table is not required in a routing-only
RTU, and security Counterpart List entries are not required in the RTU.
i.e. routing AGA12 frames follow the same rules in the RTU as for routing of DNP3 frames.
 Security Technical 47

7.3.2 AGA12 Gateway and Session Establishment

AGA12 Gateway
Typically an SCM is used to take DNP3 messages received from a SCADA master on a Clear Device
Port, encodes it, then sends the secure data out a Ciphertext Port. The virtual SCM on an
SCADAPack E RTU configured as an AGA12 Gateway is used for this purpose.
It is highly recommended that a SCADAPack ES or SCADAPack ER RTU is used as an AGA12
Gateway.
The AGA12 Gateway RTU is usually installed at the host (master station), and is capable of establishing
cryptographic sessions with multiple remote SCMs (SCADAPack E RTU Virtual SCMs) on the same
communications link. The AGA12 Gateway RTU can also communicate with remote RTUs that not
having physical or virtual SCMs installed. This is only possible when Mixed Mode is enabled on the
AGA12 Gateway RTU. The figure below illustrates a typical installation where DNP3 is encrypted using
AGA12, and uses an AGA12 Gateway:

When operating in Mixed Mode. the AGA12 Gateway RTU is configured (through the SCADAPack E
DNP3 Network Routing Table) with the SCM address (DNP3 destination address) of remote devices that
have protection enabled, and to which AGA12 encoded messages need to be sent. Setting the route
entry’s AGA12 field to AGA12 Node does this.
In addition, the AGA12 Gateway is configured for DNP3 destination addresses for RTUs that do not have
protection enabled, and to which cleartext DNP3 messages need to be sent. Similarly cleartext
messages arriving for the Master Station from unprotected RTUs needs to be allowed through the
AGA12 Gateway RTU to the Master Station. Setting the route entry’s AGA12 type to None does this.
For more information on AGA12 Gateway configuration, see Section Configuring a AGA12 Gateway
RTU 51 .

Session Establishment
SCM configuration includes details for authorizing session establishment (connection) to other AGA12
devices. This authorization is managed by way of entries in a Counterpart List by security
administration personnel using the Security Administrator.
Knowledge of DNP3 nodes, including unprotected nodes and AGA12 Gateways, is handled in the DNP3
48 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Network Routing table in the same manner as standard DNP3 communication configuration. See
Section Remote RTUs Communicating Via a AGA12 Gateway 56 .
An SCM at the master establishes a cryptographic session with its SCM counterpart (or multiple SCM
counterparts) on the channel. After a cryptographic session is established, the SCMs encrypt and
authenticate SCADA messages between each other. Where a single SCM has multiple counterparts,
cryptographic sessions need to be individually opened for each counterpart pair. A session is typically
established between SCMs as a result of a DNP3 message that is initiated from one of the devices. A
small delay is introduced while AGA12 session establishment messages are exchanged between the
SCMs. Following this and while the session remains open, each DNP3 message corresponds to one
AGA12 message.
The cryptographic algorithms that are used between SCM counterparts are negotiated between the
SCMs (“the Cipher Suite”) when the session is established.
Cryptographic sessions have a finite expiration based on time. After expiration, an SCM needs to
establish a new session with its counterpart SCM(s) to resume secure communications.
A session can be re-established by either of the counterpart SCM(s) when there is a requirement to
send a new message (payload). See Diagnostic Example - Session Re-establishment Transactions
89 .
 Security Technical 49

7.3.3 AGA12 Gateway RTU

AGA12 Encryption secured RTU systems may include one or more SCADAPack E AGA12 Gateway
RTUs. An AGA12 Gateway RTU is a standard SCADAPack E RTU configured for AGA12 Gateway
operation.
It is highly recommended that a SCADAPack ES or SCADAPack ER be used as AGA12 Gateway
RTUs.
The purpose of an AGA12 Gateway is to:
1) Provide access to DNP3 Master Station(s) to a secured AGA12 system by:
Encoding and routing cleartext DNP3 to AGA12 ciphertext
Passing cleartext DNP3 frames from Master to remote unsecured RTUs (where MIXED MODE
is enabled)
2) Secure the access from DNP3 remote configuration & maintenance tools to a secured AGA12
system

Figure 5.5: AGA12 Gateway RTU (Mixed Mode disabled)

Encoding and decoding of messages on behalf of other devices can only be done in GATEWAY MODE.
This security mode is configured by the SCADAPack E Security Administrator application.
The AGA12 Gateway RTU needs to be physically and logically secured from external influences. The
RTU’s DNP Network Routing Table includes a Security Type identifying and authorizing encoding and
decoding of messages to AGA12 protected device(s). Security COUNTERPART ENTRIES are required
for each remote SCM or Virtual SCM with which the AGA12 Gateway communicates.

MIXED MODE
50 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Figure 5.6: AGA12 Gateway RTU Operating in Mixed Mode

Encoding and decoding of messages on behalf of other devices can only be done in GATEWAY MODE.
The AGA12 Gateway RTU needs to be physically and logically secured from external influences. The
RTU’s DNP Network Routing Table includes a Security Mode identifying and authorizing encoding and
decoding of messages to AGA12 protected device(s). When in MIXED MODE, the Network Routing
Table also authorizes routing of cleartext DNP3 messages to DNP3 devices, from the Clear Device Port
to a Ciphertext Port.
Security COUNTERPART ENTRIES are required for each AGA12 remote SCM device or Virtual SCM
with which the AGA12 Gateway communicates.
Gateway mode, Mixed Mode and Counterpart Entries are configured by the SCADAPack E Security
Administrator application

Configuring an AGA12 Gateway RTU 51

 Security Technical 51

7.3.3.1 Configuring an AGA12 Gateway RTU

The role of an AGA12 Gateway RTU is to take received cleartext DNP3 frames and encode the
messages to ciphertext AGA12 frames. Similarly, the AGA12 Gateway takes cipertext AGA12 frames
and decodes and transmits them as cleartext DNP3 frames.
Typically an AGA12 Gateway RTU is used to provide access to a secured RTU network, on behalf of a
DNP3 Master Station or configuration packages not supporting AGA12 communication.
Given the primary function of an AGA12 Gateway RTU is to provide access to a secured RTU network,
deployment of AGA12 Gateway RTUs needs to be carefully considered. AGA12 Gateway RTUs need to
be located in a physically and logically secure environment. Typically they will be located adjacent to the
master station, possibly connected via serial links. If a TCP/IP LAN or WAN network interconnects an
AGA12 Gateway with a master station, the TCP/IP network needs to itself be secured. If this TCP/IP
network is to be interconnected with further networks, firewalls and other security mechanisms may be
required.
To configure a AGA12 Gateway, plug in the appropriate media “security key” provided by the Security
Administrator or open the DNP3 Network Property page in SCADAPack E Configurator and enter the
appropriate information on the DNP3 Routing table.
Typically, you configure an AGA12 Gateway RTU with a number of counterpart entries, one for each
remote SCM device or Virtual SCM (RTU) with which the AGA12 Gateway communicates.
By default, a AGA12 Gateway RTU also has MIXED MODE enabled (as required by the AGA12-2
standard). This allows an AGA12 Gateway RTU to be configured to pass received cleartext DNP3 on to
devices on a protected network, unmodified. This mode may be disabled for improved security at the
expense of requiring ALL nodes on the network to be operating with AGA12 encryption.
 52 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3.4 Secure Communications and Node Operation

AGA12 Encrypted Communications

After a cryptographic session is opened between SCM devices, a message arriving at the remote
SCADAPack E RTU enters the Virtual SCM from the Ciphertext Port where it is decoded (verified and
decrypted) then passed to DNP3 for normal processing. When a response is generated by the RTU, the
DNP3 message passes into the Virtual SCM for encoding (encrypting and signing) and is then
transmitted on the Ciphertext Port.
Cleartext DNP3 messages are NOT processed on ciphertext ports.

Figure 5.1: Encoding and Decoding DNP3 with AGA12

DNP3 Secure Authentication Communications

Unlike AGA12 encryption, DNP3 Secure Authentication does not use the concept of a Local Access
Port on a controller nor is an AGA12 Gateway RTU required. To use DNP3 Secure Authentication, you
need to have a Master that natively supports DNP3 Secure Authentication, that being, a Master Station
Host or a Data Concentrator. DNP3 Secure Authentication is enabled using the same security file
generated by the Security Administrator.

DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 Encryption Communications

To use DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12 Encryption simultaneously requires a DNP3 security-
capable Master and an AGA12 Gateway RTU. Using both DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12
Encryption modes requires configuration for security parameters for both security methods. The
SCADAPack E Security Administrator provides for combined mode operation.
Secure Node Operation
On an SCADAPack E AGA12 Node RTU, all but one of the DNP3 communication ports (including
 Security Technical 53

Ethernet and PPP ports) are Ciphertext ports. One port on SCADAPack E RTUs is set-aside as a Local
Access DNP3 port for configuration of the RTU (as normal).
Configuration of encryption settings on an SCADAPack E RTU is not carried out through the normal
configuration mechanism. You need to configure AGA12 Encryption using the Security Administrator
application. Use a plug-in Compact Flash card 31 for SCADAPack ES / SCADAPack ER , or locally
through the USB port from the SCADAPack E Configurator. Remotely configuring Security using
SCADAPack E Configurator is also possible if configured by the Security Administrator.
Routing is supported for ciphertext AGA12 frames and cleartext DNP3 frames (when in mixed mode).
For more information see Routing 65 .
 54 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3.5 Typical System Layout

Figure 8.1: Where AGA12 Gateway is Used (example shows Mixed Mode)
 Security Technical 55

7.3.6 Addressing and Local Communication

Addressing
Default DNP3 node address 0 on a new or initialized SCADAPack E RTU is not supported by AGA12 on
ciphertext ports. As such, a DNP3 address change is required for an RTU before it is used as an AGA12
Encryption secured device.
Where an RTU sends data to a node (typically the master) across the AGA12 Gateway, an SCM
address which differs from the DNP3 destination address is required (see Example Configurations 58 ).
This is so that the AGA12 message is delivered to the AGA12 Gateway, it extracts the protected DNP3
message, which is then forwarded to the Master at its DNP3 address. In these cases, AGA12 nodes are
configured with the SCM address of the AGA12 Gateway.
DNP3 device addresses in an interconnected system NEED TO BE UNIQUE so that the derived SCM
addressing is unique.
Local Communications
When you enable AGA12 encryption on an SCADAPack E RTU device without DNP3 Secure
Authentication, DNP3 communications on serial or Ethernet ports on the device are protected. that
being, DNP3 ports are ciphertext ports except one single Local Access Port (DNP3 cleartext serial
port).
A single Local Access DNP3 cleartext port is enabled on the RTU (by default, port 1) when encryption is
active. Local configuration and maintenance by the SCADAPack E Configurator. routing of cleartext
packets is still possible on this port (subject to mixed mode settings. This port may be changed from
port 1 to another port, but to do so, this needs to be configured through a new security configuration file
from the SCADAPack E Security Administrator application. When you specify a new port for Local
Access operation, the previous Local Access DNP3 port automatically becomes a ciphertext protected
port.
It is valid for an SCADAPack E RTU Ethernet port or serial PPP port to be chosen as the Local Access
port. Using an IP capable port for this purpose needs to be considered carefully. Exposing an IP port to
connections beyond the vicinity of the local RTU may invalidate the use of AGA12 as a security
methodology.
 56 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3.7 Remote RTUs Communicating using an AGA12 Gateway

This section describes remote RTUs sending data to AGA12 Gateway nodes. See Section Configuring
an AGA12 Gateway RTU 51 for a description of how to use and configure an AGA12 Gateway RTU.
Distributed DNP3 and AGA12 communication is configured in the RTU’s DNP Network Route Table.
To access the appropriate security fields in the SCADAPack E Configurator, ensure the configurator’s
RTU Features selection includes the “AGA12 Encryption” setting.
Where route table entries are added for operation as a data concentrator or peer node, an AGA12
encryption type can be set for each route entry. Typically this will be set to “AGA12 Node” for devices
protected by AGA12 and therefore communicating using ciphertext.
Where the route directs messages using an AGA12 gateway node, select from one of the “AGA12
GWn” types on the route entry. This causes the AGA12 messages to be directed to a nominated
gateway SCM address rather than to the destination DNP3 address. A route entry for a master station
needs to be present where an AGA12 Gateway is used for communication with that master station.
An “AGA12 GWn” type can select from one of five Gateway SCM (DNP) addresses. Multiple gateways
can be used for a number of purposes including multiple masters and distributed access from
configuration terminals. See Section Peer Communication, Multiple Masters, & Start-Up and
Shutdown 67 (Multiple Masters) 67 .
The Gateway SCM addresses form part of the security configuration set by the Security Administrator.
Security Configuration is deployed via plug-in media (SCADAPack ES / SCADAPack ER) or via
SCADAPack E Configurator.
When sending a DNP3 message using AGA12 ciphertext (e.g.. encoding a DNP3 frame to AGA12) and
there is a route entry selecting an “AGA12 GWn” type for that entry, the AGA12 frame is sent to the
nominated device (Virtual SCM) address, rather than the device at the destination DNP3 address. The
destination DNP address, being transported by the AGA12 frame, is not modified.
For DNP3 frames to be sent to a Master in ciphertext, and for which no route entry is present for the
master’s DNP3 address, the master’s DNP3 address will be used as the destination SCM address (this
is the default).
For systems using an AGA12 gateway, each remote AGA12 secured RTU requires an “AGA GWn”
type to be set in the DNP3 Network Route Table. You need also configure a Gateway SCM
address..
 Security Technical 57

7.3.8 Operating as a Data Concentrator

When licensed with a DNP3 Master (data concentrator) functionality, DNP3 ports may need to
communicate with cleartext 9 DNP3 slave devices and possibly ciphertext devices, on the same port.
The following will apply if AGA12 encryption is enabled on a Data Concentrator RTU:
DNP3 ports operate as AGA12 encrypted ciphertext 9 ports.
The AGA12 column shows each remote RTU node (or node range) route entry as NONE (cleartext
DNP3 device with no encryption - default) or AGA12 Node device (secured DNP3).
Nodes defined as AGA12 devices will also require counterpart list entries.
Normal data concentrator DNP3 processing and routing rules apply
Cleartext DNP3 can be sent and received by the data concentrator on an AGA12 protected port only
if the RTU is configured for operation in Mixed Mode 10 .
 58 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3.9 Example Configurations

Communication required between master station 30000 and RTU nodes through an AGA12 Gateway,
RTU Configuration / Maintenance computer permitted to connect to nodes 701 and 802, and peer
communications required between 701 and 802.

1. Simply plug in a media ‘Security Key’ (e.g. CompactFlash card) from your Security Administrator
into each SCADAPack ES or SCADAPack ER RTU in turn and setup the routing tables as below
For SCADAPack 300E RTUs load the security file via USB using SCADAPack E Configurator.
Alternatively,
2. Setup configurations as follows:

RTU 701 configurations:

Common Key 123456789ABCDEF0123456789ABCDEF0
Mac Key ABCDEF0123456789ABCDEF0123456789ABCDEF01
Gateway 1 SCM Address 40000
Counterpart List: 701, 802

As a AGA12 Gateway RTU (address 40000) is used for master and SCADAPack E access, routing
entries with SCM addressing will be required:

Src Src Src Dest Dest Dest Connect AGA12 Status

Port Start End Start End Port Number …

Any 0 65535 30000 30000 Port 2 AGA GW1

Any 0 65535 802 802 Port 2 AGA12 Node

RTU 802 configurations:

Same Group security configuration as 701.

As a AGA12 Gateway RTU (address 40000) is used for master and SCADAPack E Configurator access,
routing entries with SCM addressing will be required:
 Security Technical 59

Src Src Src Dest Dest Dest Connect AGA12

Port Start End Start End Port Number

Any 0 65535 30000 30000 Port 2 AGA GW1

Any 0 65535 701 701 Port 2 AGA12 Node

RTU 903 configurations: AGA12 security not supported, so standard configurations only
Gateway 40000 configurations:

GATEWAY mode: enabled

MIXED MODE: enabled
Clear Device Port: ETH1
Common Key 123456789ABCDEF0123456789ABCDEF0
Mac Key ABCDEF0123456789ABCDEF0123456789ABCDEF01

Src Port Src Src Dest Dest Dest Port Connect AGA12
Start End Start End Number

Ethernet 1 30000 30000 701 899 Port 2 AGA12 node

Ethernet 1 30000 30000 901 999 Port 2 NONE

Port 2 701 999 30000 30000 Ethernet 1 1.2.3.4:U NONE

This entry with AGA12 security will use the Destination DNP address as the SCM address, thereby
minimizing configuration in the route table, and maximizing use of route range entries.
The gateway RTU’s route entry 901-999 sends data to Cipher-text port 2, but in cleartext mode (i.e. no
security). This is Mixed Mode communications.
 60 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3.10 AGA12 Parameters

The following sections describe parameters associated with AGA12-2 serial protocol (known as SSPP),
their pre-defined use for DNP3 operation (as per AGA12-2 reference code) and SCADAPack E RTU user
configured parameters:

DNP3 Routing Table and AGA12 Settings 61

Fixed AGA12-2 Parameters 63
Vulnerabilities Addressed 64
 Security Technical 61

7.3.10.1 DNP3 Routing Table and AGA12 Settings

Route Table
A AGA12 Gateway requires knowledge of nodes whose packets (received on the clear device port) are
going to be encrypted and sent to a cipher port. An AGA12 Gateway also requires knowledge of
cleartext nodes whose packets are to be routed and sent in the clear (when in MIXED MODE). It derives
this information from the routing table.
The Routing table AGA12 type selections include:
None (default)
AGA12 Node
AGA12 GWn
A gateway will generally use AGA12 Node for route entries to RTU devices supporting encryption, and
None for route entries to conventional devices using standard DNP3 communications.
AGA12 GWn types are not usually used in configurations on a gateway. Typically they are used for end-
node RTUs.

Encryption Settings
AGA12 encryption settings for an AGA12 Gateway operate the same way as a remote RTU. Encryption
modes and counterpart entries are configured by the Security Administrator application and deployed
through Compact Flash “security key” (SCADAPack ES / SCADAPack ER) or SCADAPack E
Configurator. Configuration of gateway settings for non-secured and secured nodes is via a combination
of settings in the DNP3 Network Routing Table (AGA12 type field) and AGA12 counterpart entries.
Nodes that have entries in the routing able with AGA12 selection also require an entry in the counterpart
list. AGA12 frames can also be routed.
Remote RTUs prevent encoding of cleartext DNP3 on a ciphertext link by not allowing gateway
functions. On an AGA12 Gateway RTU, high levels of protection can only be provided by secure
environments on the AGA12 Gateway and strict source/destination routing.
In-bound (serial) DNP3 requests for the gateway node address (e.g., remote access attempts to the
gateway configuration) need to be authorized through AGA12. This means the remote access attempt
needs to have a matching key and have a valid session connected.
62 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference
 Security Technical 63

7.3.10.2 Fixed AGA12-2 Parameters

The following AGA12-2 SSPP (Serial SCADA Protection Protocol) options are used by SCADAPack E
RTUs. Refer to the AGA12 Standard for more information.
SSPP 8-bit Link Layer only
No Broadcast frames
No Management sessions support (future)
Encryption algorithm: AES128CTR (fixed)
CipherSuite: HmacSHA1 (fixed)
SCM address = RTU DNP3 node address
SSPP Link Layer Markers for DNP3 are as follows (from AGA12-2 DNP3 reference code):

Link Layer Control Octet

(hex)
Marker

ESC 10

SOM 11

SOT 13

EOM 14

Replacement Characters are byte stuffed in the SSPP data stream. For SCADAPack E RTU
security implementation, these are chosen to minimize cleartext DNP3 frames from attempting
synchronization part way through a ciphertext SSPP frame. SCn characters represent the SCADA
protocol Character to be replaced. RCn characters represent the replacement Character. Hardcoded
characters are chosen as follows:

SC1 05

RC1 15

ESC octets are byte stuffed with ESC ESC if followed by one of ESC, SOM, SOT, EOM, SC1, RC1.
For SCADAPack E RTUs, 05 octets are replaced by 10 15
A Typical SSPP frame format:
ESC SOM 10-byte-header encrypted-payload ESC SOT trailer ESC EOM
10 11 header… payload… 10 13 trailer… 10 14
 64 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.3.10.3 Vulnerabilities Addressed

Outstation security modes can be changed remotely, for convenience, if so enabled. For highest
security disable this in the SCADAPack E Security Administrator application. Security configuration
then requires Physical Access.
Setting a Master Key requires Physical Access.
Routing and encoding from cleartext to ciphertext is only permitted in AGA12 Gateway mode.
The state of the Gateway mode setting can be read via a read-only system point, but cannot be changed
remotely or using SCADAPack E Configurator (default is Gateway Mode DISABLED).
The RTU's general configuration file does not hold a copy of security information such as keys or
security modes. Key configurations are stored in encrypted format.
AGA12 Mixed Mode operation (processing messages for both cleartext and ciphertext on the same port)
is permitted for routing and on an AGA12 Gateway mode. It operates in conjunction with routing entries.
Mixed mode operation on RTUs relates to cleartext DNP3 routing on ports. A system point indicates if
mixed-mode is enabled or disabled. If enabled, may be disabled remotely. If mixed-mode is enabled,
cleartext and ciphertext routing is permitted on Cipher-text ports on all nodes – it is the responsibility of
the end-node to protect itself.
When using Peer communications, security considerations are as necessary as enabling secure
communication with a master station. In SCADAPack E, security configurations require peer nodes to
use the same Common Key (e.g. configured by using the same Security configuration file).
 Security Technical 65

7.4 DNP3 Routing

DNP3 Secure Authentication
When DNP3 Secure Authentication is enabled, a routing mechanism that uses a variable address
structure creates a routing path between communicating devices. The routing path reduces protocol
overhead typically associated with network layers and provides a unique network address for every
device in the distribution system. The routing mechanism is interoperable with DNP3- based devices and
does not alter the DNP3 specification.

Routing in an AGA12 Network

Routing can be used for SCADAPack E outstation network architectures supporting cleartext DNP3,
ciphertext AGA12, and mixed systems. Provision of encyrption and authentication to these SCADAPack
E architectures requires routing facilities to be secured. Typically, only a few DNP3 nodes (devices) in a
DNP3 network are configured to route DNP3 traffic. These devices usually have two or more DNP3
communication ports and are are used to connect sub-networks (groups) of RTUs together.
AGA12 Message Encryption
When AGA12 message encryption is enabled, typical SCADAPack E outstation DNP3 network
architectures are retained, (for example, radio repeater or sub-network links), while increasing the
security of such distributed systems.
An SCADAPack E outstation routes encrypted frames between ciphertext ports, intact. This improves
transaction efficiency AGA12 frames which are not decoded and re-encoded before they are passed on.
Counterpart entries are not required. DNP Network Routing Table AGA12 type fields are not need for
routing of AGA12 frames between ciphertext ports.
In accordance with AGA12-2 requirements, the SCADAPack E RTU architecture also allows mixed
cleartext and protected sub-networks. You need to understand which sub-networks or individual devices
are using AGA12 encryption and which are not. MIXED MODE needs to be enabled for an SCADAPack
E RTU to route cleartext message to a ciphertext port.
Routing rules include:
Protected AGA12 ciphertext frames can be routed from port-to-port when AGA12 encryption is
enabled on any SCADAPack E RTU. The protected frames are untouched by the router, relying on
the destination node to protect itself.
Mixed Mode is enabled by default (following AGA12-2 standard), allowing unprotected cleartext
DNP3 frames to be routed untouched (it is the responsibility of the destination node to protect itself
by rejecting unprotected cleartext DNP3 frames, if necessary). If you disable Mixed Mode, cleartext
DNP3 frames are not routed.
Cleartext DNP3 frames received on a Local Access port can be routed to a ciphertext port, but only
when Mixed Mode is enabled for AGA12 Encryption (only) licensing. If you have DNP3 Secure
Authentication licensed, or DNP3 Secure Authentication with AGA12 Encryption as your license
options, this does not apply (i.e. whenever DNP3 Secure Authentication is enabled, routing is
allowed).
Cleartext DNP3 received by a secure RTU will not be encrypted and routed in ciphertext. This is the
purpose of AGA12 Gateway RTU devices, but this mode needs to be explicitly configured. This
forms part of the secure configuration methodology used to configure AGA12 RTU encryption and is
not permitted to be remotely enabled or disabled.
These routing rules are supported by a number of SCADAPack E RTU diagnostics, detailing specific
forwarding or rejection of frames dependent on frame type (cleartext / ciphertext), port type
(ciphertext, clear device, local access), security operation (AGA12 enabled, mixed mode, gateway
66 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

mode), route AGA12 mode (None, AGA12 Node, AGA12 Gateway n). The AGA12 field defines a
protocol (SSPP) for use for connecting, transporting, encrypting, and signing serial SCADA
protocols including DNP3. The following selections are available:
—None (standard DNP3 device with no encryption)
—AGA12 Node (secure DNP3 device with encryption)
—AGA12 GWn (AGA12 messages are directed to a nominated gateway SCM address rather than to
the DNP3 address)
Diagnostics are described further in System Points 91 including a detailed list of routing diagnostic
rules.

To enable or disable Mixed Mode operation, plug in the appropriate media module set up by the Security
Administrator.
 Security Technical 67

7.5 Peer Communication, Multiple Masters, & Start-Up and Shutdown

Peer Communication
Where a node is protected by AGA12 encryption or DNP3 secure authentication, a peer node
communicating with that node needs to use the same. With AGA12, matching counterpart entries
(including key-pairs) needs to be configured for the peer device, in both devices.
Peer devices need to be configured with the security Group's Common Key 9 . For AGA12, individual
counterpart entries are still required listing the address for each peer node.

Multiple Masters
As the Common Key 9 is shared across a Group of devices and individual AGA12 sessions are opened
with each master, the Common Key is used to authenticate each session with each master (and other
devices if required).
Individual Counterpart entries are still required for AGA12 configurations.
The AGA12 Gateway address configurations previously described, also allow the use of separate AGA12
gateways for multiple masters that communicate with an SCADAPack E RTU. The AGA12 Gateway
address fields may also be referenced from other routing table entries. See Remote RTUs
Communicating Via a AGA12 Gateway 56 .

Start-Up and Shutdown

As per the AGA12-2 standard, system start-up generates new random seeds for the OPN association
number.
Upon a DNP Warm Restart or RTU Orderly shutdown, an AGA12-2 CLS (close session) is issued to any
open AGA12 connections.
 68 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

7.6 Security Considerations

Use of IP facilities
While the AGA12 encryption mechanism on SCADAPack E RTUs applies to media and transports used
for DNP3, non-DNP3 IP application communications in particular may not be secure. As such, an RTU
operating with wide area TCP/IP communications and using AGA12 encryption for DNP3 should NOT
have the following services enabled without consideration of the security implications:
Telnet
FTP
Modbus/TCP Server

IP Forwarding Restricted
When AGA12 Encryption security is active on an RTU operating as an AGA12 Gateway, IP Forwarding
across IP interfaces (which are normally enabled on SCADAPack E RTUs) are DISABLED. This
prevents one IP network interface automatically forwarding (routing) IP packets to other interfaces.
For example, in a dual Ethernet architecture, IP packets from one Ethernet interface are blocked from
routing to the other Ethernet interface. A similar philosophy applies to serial PPP links and mixed
Ethernet / PPP links.
Security is maintained in situations such as an AGA12 Gateway where one Ethernet interface is
configured as a Clear Device port (default), and the other Ethernet interface is used as a ciphertext
AGA12 secured network port.

SSPP Timing Summary

AGA12-2 includes a time-based security definition, with tolerance to aid in detecting replay attacks.
Each Cipher-text frame includes a Sequence Number that is the time in ticks since the start of a
session. The duration of a ‘tick’ is negotiable at OPN time (resolution in uS). For maximum security, one
message fits in 1 tick.
The receiver only pays heed to a packet received where the sequence number is within a tolerance of a
locally derived sequence number. If sequence numbers are incorrect, communications can’t be regained
until the session expiry timer expires! A CLS (close) is sent after this time, and a new OPN restarts the
sequence numbers. [Time drift tolerance also dictates a time at which this CLS/OPN process occurs
normally]. Similarly the ACKTIMEOUT is used in the calculation as a measure of expected link delay to
calculate the time tolerance.
 Security Technical 69

8 Security Administration
Administration of the SCADAPack E RTUs security facilities is provided through the SCADAPack E
Security Administrator application. This is a secure application, requiring licensed authorization to
operate. To obtain an activation license for the Security Administrator, please contact Schneider
Electric.
This application allows configuration of the security modes, keys, DNP3 Secure Authentication
parameters, users, configurators, AGA12 Counterpart authorization and Gateway addresses, etc. It
provides a Windows® user interface, and includes both manual and automatic generation of keys.

Figure 9.1: SCADAPack E Security Administrator Application

 70 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

8.1 Security File Management & Counterpart Entry Management

Security File Management
The SCADAPack E Security Administrator application manages security configuration files, allowing
security configuration files to be exported, including to plug-in media “security key” devices for example,
a Compact Flash card. This allows deployment of security configurations to the SCADAPack E RTU.
Existing security configuration files can also be opened and managed.
Key values may be copied from the application to other applications. This includes SCADA Host (Master
Stations) that support security keys, for example.
Common Key and security mode configurations for each RTU security Group are exported from the
Security Administrator. It stores the security configuration for one group, or all groups in a “SYSTEM.
RTK” files. This contains security configuration for both DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12
Encryption.
Master Key configuration for all controllers can be exported from the Security Administrator and saved
as a "SYSTEM.KEY" file. The Master Key files are typically set once in the lifetime of a system, and
must be deployed locally.

AGA12 Counterpart Entry Management

Authorization for this node to communicate with other AGA12 nodes is given through Counterpart Entries
(including the Master Station or AGA12 Gateway RTUs). The list shown in the lower part of the Security
Administrator form provides counterpart entry configuration. A separate counterpart entry is required for
each node with the Group to which RTUs may communicate with.
See SCADAPack E Security Administrator User Guide for more information on setting Counterpart
Entries.

9 Diagnostics
Diagnostic Filtering 77

Routing Rule Diagnostics 78

Diagnostic Example - Session Open Transactions 82

Diagnostic Example - Session Re-establishment Transactions 89

System Points 91
 Security Technical 71

9.1 DNP3 Secure Authentication Diagnostics

A Command line diagnostic interface is provided on the SCADAPack E RTU for DNP3 Secure
Authentication. For more information on command line operation and diagnostics, refer to the
SCADAPack E Operational Reference Manual.

Set DNP3 Diag Filters.

Usage: DNPDIAG mode filter [filter...]
Where: mode = ENABLE DISABLE
Where: filter = SECURITY ...

Other DNP3 protocol diagnostic filters are described in SCADAPack E Operational Reference manual.

Set the diagnostic filters on other protocol layers using DNPDIAG if necessary, then use DIAG
command to enter diagnostic stream mode.

Diagnostic Example - No RTU Security Configured 71

Diagnostic Example - Incorrect Security Credentials 73
Diagnostic Example - Successful Critical Message Challenge 75

9.1.1 Diagnostic Example - No RTU Security Configured

DNP3 Secure Authentication Example 1:

In the following example, a master device tries to establish DNP3 Secure Authentication session with
SCADAPack E RTU.
RTU is not configured for, or does not support DNP3 Secure Authentication.

C:\> DNPDIAG /?
Set DNP Diag Filters.
Usage: DNPDIAG mode filter [filter ....] [param]
Where: mode = ENABLE DISABLE
Where: filter = * 1 2 3 ETH
APPL BYTES DBASE EVENTS FILTER_ADDR LINK NETWORK RAW_NET
SECURITY TIME TRANSP USER
DNP Diags: --- link, *** net, ~~~ trans, === appl, +++ user

C:\> DNPDIAG ENABLE APPL DBASE USER SECURITY

DNP3 Diags Enabled: 0 1 2 3 4 ETH1 APPL DBASE USER SECURITY

C:\> DIAG

Connecting to diagnostic display. Use <ESC> to disconnect

===> [32000] Application Header, Authentication Request

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 1

Rx Object 120(Authentication), variation 4, qualifier 0x07

(8 Bit Limited Quantity)
Rx Authentication Key Status Request, User = 1
72 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

<+++ [32000] Insert request in queue: NULL Response

<=== [32000] Application Header, Response
FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 1 IIN(0x0100)

<=== [32000] IIN Bits:

IIN2.0 Function Code Not Implemented

Disconnected from diagnostic display

C:\>
 Security Technical 73

9.1.2 Diagnostic Example - Incorrect Security Credentials

DNP3 Secure Authentication Example 2:

Master device tries to establish DNP3 Secure Authentication with incorrect security credentials
(separate for wrong keys vs. invalid username / password ??)

C:\> DNPDIAG /?
Set DNP Diag Filters.
Usage: DNPDIAG mode filter [filter ....] [param]
Where: mode = ENABLE DISABLE
Where: filter = * 1 2 3 ETH
APPL BYTES DBASE EVENTS FILTER_ADDR LINK NETWORK RAW_NET
SECURITY TIME TRANSP USER
DNP Diags: --- link, *** net, ~~~ trans, === appl, +++ user

C:\> DNPDIAG ENABLE APPL DBASE USER SECURITY

DNP3 Diags Enabled: 0 1 2 3 4 ETH1 APPL DBASE USER SECURITY

C:\> DIAG

Connecting to diagnostic display. Use <ESC> to disconnect

===> [32000] Application Header, Authentication Request

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 1

Rx Object 120(Authentication), variation 4, qualifier 0x07

(8 Bit Limited Quantity)
Rx Authentication Key Status Request, User = 1

<+++ [32000] Build DNP3 Message: Authentication Key Status

Tx Object 120(Authentication), variation 5, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
Tx Authentication Key Status, User = 1, Sequence = 1,
KeyWrapAlgorithm = AES 128, hmacAlgorithm = SHA1 4 OCTET, Status 2-NOTINIT

<+++ [32000] Insert request in queue: Authentication Key Status

<=== [32000] Application Header, Authentication Response

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 1

===> [32000] Application Header, Authentication Request

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 2

Rx Object 120(Authentication), variation 6, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
**** [32000] Secure Authentication Session Key failure, length 152
expected 81****
Rx Authentication Key Change Request, User = 1, Key
Length = 0, Sequence = 1, Expected = 1 FAILURE

<+++ [32000] Build DNP3 Message: Authentication Key Status

74 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Tx Object 120(Authentication), variation 5, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
Tx Authentication Key Status, User = 1, Sequence = 2,
KeyWrapAlgorithm = AES 128, hmacAlgorithm = SHA1 4 OCTET, Status 4-AUTHFAIL

<=== [32000] Application Header, Authentication Response

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 6
 Security Technical 75

9.1.3 Diagnostic Example - Successful Critical Message Challenge

DNP3 Secure Authentication Example 3:

Master device establishes session, with security authentication, successfully.
Critical operations are challenged and accepted.

C:\> DNPDIAG /?
Set DNP Diag Filters.
Usage: DNPDIAG mode filter [filter ....] [param]
Where: mode = ENABLE DISABLE
Where: filter = * 1 2 3 ETH
APPL BYTES DBASE EVENTS FILTER_ADDR LINK NETWORK RAW_NET
SECURITY TIME TRANSP USER
DNP Diags: --- link, *** net, ~~~ trans, === appl, +++ user

C:\> DNPDIAG ENABLE APPL DBASE USER SECURITY

DNP3 Diags Enabled: 0 1 2 3 4 ETH1 APPL DBASE USER SECURITY

C:\> DIAG

Connecting to diagnostic display. Use <ESC> to disconnect

===> [32000] Application Header, Authentication Request

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 1

Rx Object 120(Authentication), variation 4, qualifier 0x07

(8 Bit Limited Quantity)
Rx Authentication Key Status Request, User = 1

<+++ [32000] Build DNP3 Message: Authentication Key Status

Tx Object 120(Authentication), variation 5, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
Tx Authentication Key Status, User = 1, Sequence = 1,
KeyWrapAlgorithm = AES 128, hmacAlgorithm = SHA1 4 OCTET, Status 2-NOTINIT

<+++ [32000] Insert request in queue: Authentication Key Status

<=== [32000] Application Header, Authentication Response

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 1

===> [32000] Application Header, Authentication Request

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 2

Rx Object 120(Authentication), variation 6, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
Rx Authentication Key Change Request, User = 1, Key
Length = 32, Sequence = 1, Expected = 1 SUCCESS

<+++ [32000] Build DNP3 Message: Authentication Key Status

Tx Object 120(Authentication), variation 5, qualifier 0x5b

76 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

(16 Bit Free Format)

Tx Authentication Key Status, User = 1, Sequence = 2,
KeyWrapAlgorithm = AES 128, hmacAlgorithm = SHA1 4 OCTET, Status 1-OK

<+++ [32000] Insert request in queue: Authentication Key Status

<=== [32000] Application Header, Authentication Response

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 2

===> [32000] Application Header, Direct Operate

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 3

<+++ [32000] Build DNP3 Message: Authentication Challenge

Tx Object 120(Authentication), variation 1, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
Tx Authentication Challenge, User = 0, Sequence = 1,
Algorithm = 1-SHA1 4 OCTET, Reason 1-CRITICAL

<+++ [32000] Insert request in queue: Authentication Challenge

<=== [32000] Application Header, Authentication Response

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 3

===> [32000] Application Header, Authentication Request

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 3

Rx Object 120(Authentication), variation 2, qualifier 0x5b

(16 Bit Free Format)
Rx Authentication Reply, User = 1, Sequence = 1
SUCCESS

Rx Object 12(Control Relay Output Block), variation 1,

qualifier 0x28(16 Bit Index)
Control Relay Output Block 000001 = 0x04(LATCH_OFF: :
:NUL)
count = 1, on = 0, off = 0, status = 0(SUCCESS)

<+++ [32000] Insert request in queue: Direct Operate Response

<=== [32000] Application Header, Response

FIR(1) FIN(1) CON(0) UNS(0) SEQ# 3 IIN(0x0000)
 Security Technical 77

9.2 AGA12 Encryption Diagnostics

Extensive diagnostics are provided by the SCADAPack E RTU for AGA12 Encryption operation and
communication.
Diagnostic Filtering 77

Routing Rule Diagnostics 78

Diagnostic Example - Session Open Transactions 82

Diagnostic Example - Session Re-establishment Transactions 89

System Points 91

9.2.1 Diagnostic Filtering

A Command line diagnostic interface is provided on the SCADAPack E RTU for AGA12. For more
information on command line operation and diagnostics, refer to the SCADAPack E Operational
Reference Manual.

Set AGA12 Diag Filters.

Usage: AGA12DIAG mode filter [filter...]
Where: mode = ENABLE DISABLE
Where: filter = * SCM PACKET TRANSPORT LINK BYTES INROUTE OUTROUTE
RAWBYTES TIMESTAMP

The filters can be set for various levels of diagnostics on AGA12 communications. See Diagnostic
Example - Session Open Transactions 82 and Diagnostic Example - Session Re-establishment
Transactions 89 for typical diagnostic output.

FILTER:

* diagnostics - A large volume of information provided for each

transaction
SCM SCADA Cryptographic Module (highest AGA12 layer diagnostics)
PACKET AGA12 packet receive header diagnostics
TRANSPORT AGA12 transport (wrapper) diagnostics
LINK AGA12 link layer (receive and send length) diagnostics
BYTES The data content bytes as each is decoded or built for each of the
AGA12-2 processing layers
INROUTE Inbound routing rule diagnostics
OUTROUTE Outbound routing rule diagnostics
RAWBYTES AGA12 frame bytes as they are received and transmitted on the
communications port
 78 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

9.2.2 Routing Rule Diagnostics

AGA12 & DNP3 Routing Diagnostics

Inbound AGA12 frames received on a cipertext port and not destined for the receiving node are routed
according to DNP3 routing entries. They are routed and are not subject to the AGA12 processing rules
or DNP3 routing rules that result is the diagnostic messages described in the following tables.
AGA12 frames destined for the receiving node are subject to routing rules and will produce messages
described in the following tables.
DNP3 frames (being unsecured) are subject to routing rules and will produce messages described in the
following tables.
SCADAPack E routing diagnostics refer to the route rule numbers.These are shown along with a
description of their meaning in the following tables.
Routing Rule Diagnostics for Inbound DNP3 Frames 78

Routing Rule Diagnostics for Inbound AGA12 Frames 79

Routing Rule Diagnostics for Unsolicited, Peer, Master Messages 80

Routing Rule Diagnostics for Inbound DNP3 Frames

When the AGADIAG ENABLE INROUTE command is used, diagnostics similar to the following are
shown referencing routing rules.
AGA12>>Inbound DNP3 frame from 32002. Process Frame for Me (Rule
D9)

The routing rule numbers have the following meanings:

Rule Meaning
D1 Security is not enabled, DNP3 message is for me and is processed
D2 Security is not enabled, DNP3 message has a route in the route table and is routed in Clear
Text
D3 DNP3 Clear Text message is received for me on a Cipher Text port in Mixed Mode (not as a
Data Concentrator). Message is discarded
D4 DNP3 Clear Text message is received on a Cipher Text port in Mixed Mode. A route entry
has no Security Level so is routed in Clear Text
D5 DNP3 Clear Text message is received on a Cipher Text port in Mixed Mode. A route entry
has AGA12 security level, so message is discarded
D6 DNP3 message is received on Local Access port for me, and is processed
D7 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode on the Local Access port.
A route entry has no security level and is routed in Clear Text
D8 DNP3 Clear Text message is received by a AGA12 Gateway on a Local Access port in
Mixed Mode. A route entry has AGA12 security level, so message is discarded
D9 DNP3 message is received for me as a AGA12 Gateway on a Clear Text port, and is
processed
D10 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode on a Clear Text port. A
route entry has no security level and is routed in Clear Text
D11 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode on a Clear Text port. A
 Security Technical 79

route entry has AGA12 security level and is sent encrypted on a Cipher Text port
D12 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode on a Clear Text port. A
route entry has AGA12 security level but can't be sent to the Local Access port. Message
is discarded
D13 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode on a Clear Text port. A
route entry has AGA12 security level but can't be sent to a Clear Text port. Message is
discarded
D14 DNP3 Clear Text message is received on a Cipher Text port. Mixed mode is disabled so
message is discarded
D15 DNP3 Clear Text message is received by a AGA12 Gateway on a Clear Text port. Mixed
Mode is disabled,and even though a route entry has no security level, message is
discarded
D16 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway on a Clear Text port. A route entry has
AGA12 security level and is sent encrypted on a Cipher Text port
D17 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway on a Clear Text port. A route entry has
AGA12 security level but can't be sent to the Local Access port. Message is discarded
D18 DNP3 message is received by a AGA12 Gateway on a Clear Text port. A route entry has
AGA12 security level but can't be sent to a Clear Text port. Message is discarded
D19 DNP3 Clear Text message is received on a Local Access port. Mixed mode is disabled so
message is discarded
D20 DNP3 message is received in Mixed Mode on the Local Access port. A route entry has no
security level and is routed in Clear Text
D21 DNP3 Clear Text message is received on a Local Access port in Mixed Mode. A route entry
has AGA12 security level, so message is discarded
D22 DNP3 Clear Text message from a slave device is received for me on a Cipher Text port, as
a data concentrator in Mixed Mode, and is processed

Routing Rule Diagnostics for Inbound AGA12 M essages

When the AGADIAG ENABLE INROUTE command is used, diagnostics similar to the following are
shown referencing routing rules.
AGA12>>Inbound AGA12 frame from 2 to 32002. Msg Sent in Clear Text (Rule
A3)

The routing rule numbers have the following meanings:

Rule Meaning
A1 Security is not enabled. AGA12 message from DNP3 port is discarded
A2 AGA12 message from CipherText port is for me and will be processed
A3 AGA12 message from CipherText port is routed (in ClearText) by AGA12 Gateway to
ClearText port
A4 AGA12 message on CipherText port to other CipherText port has no route entry security
level and is discarded
A5 AGA12 message on CipherText port cannot route to Local Access port, has no route entry
security level, and is discarded
A6 AGA12 message on CipherText port is routed to other CipherText port
80 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

A7 AGA12 message on CipherText port cannot route to Local Access port, even though it has
a route entry security level, and is discarded
A8 AGA12 message from CipherText port is routed (encrypted) by AGA12 Gateway to
ClearText port
A9 AGA12 message fromLocal Access port cannot be routed and is discarded
A10 AGA12 message from ClearText port on AGA12 Gateway is for me and will be processed
A11 AGA12 message from ClearText port on AGA12 Gateway has a route entry Security Level
and is routed (encrypted)
A12 AGA12 message from ClearText port on AGA12 Gateway has no route entry Security Level
and is routed to ClearText port
A13 AGA12 message from ClearText port on AGA12 Gateway has no route entry Security Level,
can't be routed to CipherText port, so is discarded
A14 AGA12 message from ClearText port on AGA12 Gateway has no route entry Security Level,
can't be routed to Local Access port, so is discarded

Routing Rule Diagnostics for Unsolicited, Peer, M aster

M essages
When the AGADIAG ENABLE OUTROUTE command is used, diagnostics similar to the following are
shown referencing routing rules.
AGA12>>Outbound Message to 30000. Msg Sent Encrypted (Rule O12)

The routing rule numbers have the following meanings:

Rule Meaning
O1 Security is disabled. DNP3 message sent in Clear Text
O2 AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode. DNP3 message sent in Clear Text on a Clear Text port
O3 AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode. Slave RTU DNP3 message can't be sent on a Cipher Text
port with route entry that has no security level. Message discarded
O4 AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode. DNP3 message sent as encrypted AGA12 message on a
Cipher Text port.
O5 AGA12 Gateway in Mixed Mode. DNP3 message sent as encrypted AGA12 message on a
Clear Text port.
O6 AGA12 Gateway, Mixed Mode disabled. The Route entry has no security level. DNP3
message is sent in Clear Text on a Clear Text port
O7 AGA12 Gateway, Mixed Mode disabled. DNP3 message sent as encrypted AGA12
message on a Clear Text port.
O8 AGA12 Gateway, Mixed Mode disabled. DNP3 message can't be sent on a Cipher Text
port with route entry that has no security level. Message discarded
O9 AGA12 Gateway, Mixed Mode disabled. DNP3 message sent as encrypted AGA12
message on a Cipher Text port
O10 DNP3 message sent in Clear Text on Local Access port
O11 Mixed mode disabled. DNP3 message can't be sent on a Cipher Text port with route entry
that has no security level. Message discarded
O12 DNP3 message sent as encrypted AGA12 message on a Cipher Text port
 Security Technical 81

O13 Mixed mode enabled. DNP3 message sent to Slave RTU in Clear Text on a Cipher Text
port as route entry has no security level
O14 Mixed mode enabled. DNP3 message can't be sent on a Cipher Text port with route entry
that has no security level. Message discarded
O15 AGA12 Gateway in Mixed mode. DNP3 message sent to Slave RTU in Clear Text on a
Cipher Text port as route entry has no security level
 82 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

9.2.3 Diagnostic Example - Session Open Transactions

AGA12 Session Open Transactions:

AGA12DIAG ENABLE *

15:04:09.359
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 10 11 21 00 02 00 04 01 83 32 8F 8F 29 14 8C 07
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 8A 88 C7 53 CC D0 7C F2 B8 1B F1 93 8D 57 6A 22
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 1A 43 25 75 B3 EA DA A4 A8 B4 F5 3D 6C D8 C4 65
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 71 B1 15 4E D0 58 08 D5 1A 87 DA 4E B5 A9 7B AF
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 7A CB D4 B8 8B F7 EF 8D E4 E6 AF 6D 21 0A 0B 9B
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: F0 E0 B2 1E 2C DF 44 38 AC C7 CA BB 55 77 6D 3E
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 69 E0 10 15 CD 9E 8E 81 C4 6B 65 24 E9 83 3C 21
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 41 12 90 C1 CF 22 83 DC 72 AF 4A 1D 55 B3 4F B4
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: C0 B4 45 26 CA 44 95 AE F7 F6 E0 8A 80 27 7F 8C
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: E4 DF 9F F6 34 30 A0 F1 9C 57 0F AF DD 25 6C 07
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 4E BB DA 16 0E 1A E4 1A 91 73 93 0D EC 10 A6 0A
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: D2 9E FC 10 15 83 1C E3 10 13 CC 4C 0E F6 7E 93
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 07 C9 E1 7B 71 37 C4 A8 9D CD F4 DE D8 AE 10 14
15:04:09.765
AGA12>>LinkLayer received packet: 200 bytes
21 00 02 00 04 01 83 32 8F 8F

29 14 8C 07 8A 88 C7 53 CC D0 7C F2 B8 1B F1 93
8D 57 6A 22 1A 43 25 75 B3 EA DA A4 A8 B4 F5 3D
6C D8 C4 65 71 B1 15 4E D0 58 08 D5 1A 87 DA 4E
B5 A9 7B AF 7A CB D4 B8 8B F7 EF 8D E4 E6 AF 6D
21 0A 0B 9B F0 E0 B2 1E 2C DF 44 38 AC C7 CA BB
55 77 6D 3E 69 E0 05 CD 9E 8E 81 C4 6B 65 24 E9
83 3C 21 41 12 90 C1 CF 22 83 DC 72 AF 4A 1D 55
B3 4F B4 C0 B4 45 26 CA 44 95 AE F7 F6 E0 8A 80
27 7F 8C E4 DF 9F F6 34 30 A0 F1 9C 57 0F AF DD
25 6C 07 4E BB DA 16 0E 1A E4 1A 91 73 93 0D EC
10 A6 0A D2 9E FC 05 83 1C E3

CC 4C 0E F6 7E 93 07 C9 E1 7B 71 37 C4 A8 9D CD
F4 DE D8 AE

15:04:09.781
AGA12>>Transport.receiveBegin
 Security Technical 83

15:04:09.781
AGA12>>Transport.receiveHeader 10 bytes
15:04:09.781
AGA12>>Transport.receiveHeader dest=2 src=4 sessionId=1 sequence=2201128847 type=1
15:04:09.781
AGA12>>Transport.updateMac in receivePayload 10 bytes
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>Packet.receiveHeader dest=2 src=4 session=1 type=1 size=0
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>Transport.receivePayload length 1+169
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>Transport.receiveTrailer
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>Packet.receiveTrailer
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=0 expiry=278
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=45785 expiry=72000
15:04:09.796
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=9785 expiry=72000
15:04:09.812
AGA12>>SCM received: OPN[4->2 (1) nonce=2813167e {data id=2 resolution=100000
tolerance=21 base=0 expiry=278 suite=1 macLength=20
key=2FAC98B13B2E68AD43B486CC6709D21E
macKey=93541242DB11551B678CCB3752A6DA3C2FD8C569}]
15:04:09.812
AGA12>>SCM remove Session broadcast <- 4 id=1
15:04:09.812
AGA12>>SCM remove Session broadcast <- 4 id=2
15:04:09.812
AGA12>>New session 2<->4(2)
15:04:09.812
AGA12>>SCM add 2 <-> 4 id=2
15:04:09.812
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=0 expiry=256
15:04:09.828
AGA12>>New session broadcast<->4(1)
15:04:09.828
AGA12>>SCM add broadcast <- 4 id=1
15:04:09.828
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=45785 expiry=72000
15:04:09.828
AGA12>>New session broadcast<->4(2)
84 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

15:04:09.828
AGA12>>SCM add broadcast <- 4 id=2
15:04:09.828
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=9785 expiry=72000
15:04:09.828
AGA12>>SCM sending ACK[2->4 (1) nonceOpn=2813167e nonceAck=915621b7 {data id=2
resolution=100000 tolerance=51 base=0 expiry=256 suite=1 macLength=20
key=2FAC98B13B2E68AD43B486CC6709D21E
macKey=93541242DB11551B678CCB3752A6DA3C2FD8C569}]
15:04:09.843
AGA12>>Transport.sendHeader dest=4 src=2 session=1 type=2
15:04:09.843
AGA12>>LinkLayer send header 10 bytes
22 00 04 00 02 01 7C 7C 3E DB
15:04:09.843
AGA12>>LinkLayer send payload 174 bytes
3A AF 3F 39 E1 DE 11 9F BF 21 B5 E1 DB 1E D8 7C
35 CB BF 67 57 2B 5F 14 36 07 BC C6 C9 2E 3A 7B
2C 83 DC 74 E3 21 13 4E 04 94 B7 B7 B4 C1 86 66
8A 21 FA C3 B1 3D 6C 16 08 43 58 F4 20 5D 27 95
56 7A C0 DC D4 C7 53 D5 03 AA 89 04 BE CD C0 93
11 2C 44 8A CF D7 A9 6D 7F 82 CF 92 C3 20 05 78
23 16 8D AD C1 C5 13 52 16 97 A9 45 38 0F F6 3E
8E AD 5E AD C9 B0 E0 21 BC 70 16 49 25 DB 13 AD
B8 10 32 B1 BC 17 36 9C E0 72 F6 BD 83 AB 8E 7C
46 70 C0 FD 54 29 C5 83 F4 05 27 D1 E1 19 BE 9C
2B BE 65 46 E5 F1 EE A0 D3 A2 96 7D 9F C0

15:04:09.859
AGA12>>Transport.update sent a block of 174 bytes
15:04:09.875
AGA12>>Transport.doFinal in sendTrailer
15:04:09.875
AGA12>>Transport.sendPayload length 1+173
15:04:09.875
AGA12>>LinkLayer send trailer 20 bytes
71 D2 DE 39 88 CF 06 87 51 09 8E BF A6 21 36 51
BA FC A8 0D
 Security Technical 85

15:04:10.312
AGA12>>Tx Bytes on Port 0:
10 11 22 00 04 00 02 01 7C 7C 3E DB 3A AF 3F 39
E1 DE 11 9F BF 21 B5 E1 DB 1E D8 7C 35 CB BF 67
57 2B 5F 14 36 07 BC C6 C9 2E 3A 7B 2C 83 DC 74
E3 21 13 4E 04 94 B7 B7 B4 C1 86 66 8A 21 FA C3
B1 3D 6C 16 08 43 58 F4 20 5D 27 95 56 7A C0 DC
D4 C7 53 D5 03 AA 89 04 BE CD C0 93 11 2C 44 8A
CF D7 A9 6D 7F 82 CF 92 C3 20 10 15 78 23 16 8D
AD C1 C5 13 52 16 97 A9 45 38 0F F6 3E 8E AD 5E
AD C9 B0 E0 21 BC 70 16 49 25 DB 13 AD B8 10 32
B1 BC 17 36 9C E0 72 F6 BD 83 AB 8E 7C 46 70 C0
FD 54 29 C5 83 F4 10 15 27 D1 E1 19 BE 9C 2B BE
65 46 E5 F1 EE A0 D3 A2 96 7D 9F C0 10 13 71 D2
DE 39 88 CF 06 87 51 09 8E BF A6 21 36 51 BA FC
A8 0D 10 14

AGA12 DNP3 Request / Response Transactions:

15:09:09.140
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 10 11 23 00 02 00 04 02 00 00 00 62 40 86 AD 5E
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 02 6E 3F 9E CB 74 85 BD 03 C3 5F A8 D3 AF 3F 47
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 39 24 2D CC E0 8F E9 6D 2C 53 F0 9E F8 B8 CA AA
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: B9 29 69 64 8C 60 90 C2 1C 1C 67 CD C0 5F 4A 57
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: C3 A8 FB E6 95 5C 07 E0 69 DC BF
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: AF A4 BD AB AF 96 38 C0 7B 46 C6 19 86 DF FA CA
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: AA DF 48 BD 86 51 66 3F 72 F4 C7 86 B2 6B 13 3B
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 90 90 73 7F 8F 26 9B AE 06 B9 53 04 86 35
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: 10 13 C9 A2 2F 2B CC AC 28 C5 71 9D 9D E4 C2 8C
AGA12>>Bytes Rx on Port 0: C7 C2 CA 58 F9 1B 10 14

15:09:09.546
AGA12>>LinkLayer received packet: 139 bytes
23 00 02 00 04 02 00 00 00 62

40 86 AD 5E 02 6E 3F 9E CB 74 85 BD 03 C3 5F A8
D3 AF 3F 47 39 24 2D CC E0 8F E9 6D 2C 53 F0 9E
F8 B8 CA AA B9 29 69 64 8C 60 90 C2 1C 1C 67 CD
C0 5F 4A 57 C3 A8 FB E6 95 5C 07 E0 69 DC BF AF
A4 BD AB AF 96 38 C0 7B 46 C6 19 86 DF FA CA AA
DF 48 BD 86 51 66 3F 72 F4 C7 86 B2 6B 13 3B 90
86 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

90 73 7F 8F 26 9B AE 06 B9 53 04 86 35

C9 A2 2F 2B CC AC 28 C5 71 9D 9D E4 C2 8C C7 C2
CA 58 F9 1B

15:09:09.562
AGA12>>Transport.receiveBegin
15:09:09.562
AGA12>>Transport.receiveHeader 10 bytes
15:09:09.562
AGA12>>Transport.receiveHeader dest=2 src=4 sessionId=2 sequence=98 type=3
15:09:09.562
AGA12>>seq=98 readSeq=30 now=103 diff=5 maxdiff=51
15:09:09.562
AGA12>>Transport.updateMac in receivePayload 10 bytes
15:09:09.562
AGA12>>Packet.receiveHeader dest=2 src=4 session=2 type=3 size=0
15:09:09.578
AGA12>>SCM received: DTA[4->2 (2)]
15:09:09.578
AGA12>>Transport.receivePayload length 1+108
15:09:09.578
AGA12>>Transport.receiveTrailer
15:09:09.578
AGA12>>Packet.receiveTrailer

15:09:09.578
...> ch00 00004.>00002 PRIMARY LINK HEADER - UNCONFIRMED USER DATA
FCV:0 FCB:0 DIR:1 Length:092

15:09:09.593
Security Route>>Inbound Frame Route Result = TO_ME. Rule A3

15:09:09.593
***> ch00 00004*>00002 FRAME ADDRESSED TO ME

15:09:09.593
---> ch00 00004->00002 TRANSPORT HEADER - First:1 Final:1 Sequence:01

15:09:09.593
~~~> ch00 00004~>00002 APPLICATION HEADER - READ
 Security Technical 87

First:1 Final:1 Confirm:0 Sequence:02

15:09:09.609
<~~~ ch00 00004<~00002 APPLICATION HEADER - RESPONSE TO REQUEST
First:1 Final:1 Confirm:0 Sequence:02 IIN:0x8020

15:09:09.609
<--- ch00 00004<-00002 TRANSPORT HEADER - First:1 Final:1 Sequence:06

15:09:09.609
<... ch00 00004<.00002 PRIMARY LINK HEADER - UNCONFIRMED USER DATA
FCV:0 FCB:0 DIR:0 Length:177
15:09:09.609
AGA12>>Received Scada message: dest=4, src=2
15:09:09.625
AGA12>>Transport.sendHeader dest=4 src=2 session=2 type=3
15:09:09.625
AGA12>>LinkLayer send header 10 bytes
23 00 04 00 02 02 00 00 00 67

15:09:09.625
AGA12>>LinkLayer send payload 204 bytes
34 90 13 3B 94 06 CC 85 42 00 74 34 E3 B2 27 82
42 19 70 C4 55 EE 83 1C C2 3C 30 D4 F8 53 35 E2
0E 9F 02 C5 4B BD 8A 2D 71 BA 6C B2 12 48 16 0A
C3 2D AA AA 92 15 4A 2E 17 4A E0 26 B8 0A D5 1E
1C A4 1B 66 77 71 94 13 24 F6 0D 30 EA 4E B8 13
97 14 F5 A5 D1 29 21 ED 8F 49 07 9E D9 93 BA 33
42 38 EA EF 25 C2 4E 87 BB 55 1D 4E 9C 0F 71 CE
7C E0 D3 C2 97 A2 76 70 29 7C 09 57 D6 58 D9 69
DB BB BA 86 1D 65 8A 79 2D 8D 3A D4 CA 34 2A 1A
DF F6 B7 11 98 8D 4E 30 A3 38 01 EC 4B 15 11 A5
63 B9 1C 37 61 1F 82 DC 74 1D 03 7F EC 69 D8 04
7B 1E D3 E6 D9 9A FA FA E6 AC FA 49 25 34 D2 02
89 D0 12 CF D8 7B D5 82 64 A1 FF 72

15:09:09.640
AGA12>>Transport.update sent a block of 204 bytes
15:09:09.640
AGA12>>SCM sent DTA payload
15:09:09.656
AGA12>>Transport.doFinal in sendTrailer
88 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

15:09:09.656
AGA12>>Transport.sendPayload length 1+203
15:09:09.656
AGA12>>LinkLayer send trailer 20 bytes
E7 74 67 21 FA 36 04 1A 50 8D 3D 63 EF 97 0D 01
C2 05 B9 87

15:09:10.156
AGA12>>Tx Bytes on Port 0:

10 11 23 00 04 00 02 02 00 00 00 67 34 90 13 3B
94 06 CC 85 42 00 74 34 E3 B2 27 82 42 19 70 C4
55 EE 83 1C C2 3C 30 D4 F8 53 35 E2 0E 9F 02 C5
4B BD 8A 2D 71 BA 6C B2 12 48 16 0A C3 2D AA AA
92 15 4A 2E 17 4A E0 26 B8 0A D5 1E 1C A4 1B 66
77 71 94 13 24 F6 0D 30 EA 4E B8 13 97 14 F5 A5
D1 29 21 ED 8F 49 07 9E D9 93 BA 33 42 38 EA EF
25 C2 4E 87 BB 55 1D 4E 9C 0F 71 CE 7C E0 D3 C2
97 A2 76 70 29 7C 09 57 D6 58 D9 69 DB BB BA 86
1D 65 8A 79 2D 8D 3A D4 CA 34 2A 1A DF F6 B7 11
98 8D 4E 30 A3 38 01 EC 4B 15 11 A5 63 B9 1C 37
61 1F 82 DC 74 1D 03 7F EC 69 D8 04 7B 1E D3 E6
D9 9A FA FA E6 AC FA 49 25 34 D2 02 89 D0 12 CF
D8 7B D5 82 64 A1 FF 72 10 13 E7 74 67 21 FA 36
04 1A 50 8D 3D 63 EF 97 0D 01 C2 10 15 B9 87 10
14
 Security Technical 89

9.2.4 Diagnostic Example - Session Re-establishment Transactions

AGA12 Session Re-establishment Transactions:

... NEW SESSION REQUEST FROM REMOTE DEVICE IS RECEIVED HERE ...
17:37:39.165
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=0 expiry=49
17:37:39.166
AGA12>>SCM received: OPN[20000->3 (1) nonce=f11ebf5e {data id=2 resolution=10000 0 tolerance=46
base=0 expiry=49 }]
17:37:39.166
AGA12>>New session 3<->20000(2)
17:37:39.167
AGA12>>SCM add 3 <-> 20000 id=2
17:37:39.167
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=0 expiry=47
17:37:39.168
AGA12>>SCM sending ACK[3->20000 (1) nonceOpn=f11ebf5e nonceAck=feb7c6e0 {data id =2
resolution=100000 tolerance=46 base=0 expiry=47 }]
17:37:39.467
AGA12>>SCM received: DTA[20000->3 (2)]
17:37:39.475
AGA12>>Inbound AGA12 frame from 32000. Process Frame for Me (Rule A2)
17:37:39.481
AGA12>>Received Scada message: dest=20000, src=3
17:37:39.483
AGA12>>SCM sent DTA payload

... SESSION TIMES-OUT LOCALLY AND IS DISCONNECTED HERE ...

17:37:43.852
AGA12>>Session Timeout for ID 2
17:37:43.852
AGA12>>SCM sending: CLS[3->20000 (2)]
17:37:43.853
AGA12>>SCM remove Session 3 <-> 20000 id=2

... NEW SESSION REQUEST FROM REMOTE DEVICE IS RECEIVED HERE ...
17:37:46.811
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=0 expiry=45
17:37:46.812
AGA12>>SCM received: OPN[20000->3 (1) nonce=c76c68fd {data id=2 resolution=10000 0
tolerance=46 base=0 expiry=45 }]
17:37:46.812
AGA12>>New session 3<->20000(2)
17:37:46.813
AGA12>>SCM add 3 <-> 20000 id=2
17:37:46.813
AGA12>>SessionRequest: base=0 expiry=41
17:37:46.814
AGA12>>SCM sending ACK[3->20000 (1) nonceOpn=c76c68fd nonceAck=ba60f068 {data id =2
resolution=100000 tolerance=46 base=0 expiry=41 }]
17:37:47.113
AGA12>>SCM received: DTA[20000->3 (2)]
90 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

17:37:47.122
AGA12>>Inbound AGA12 frame from 32000. Process Frame for Me (Rule A2)
17:37:47.127
AGA12>>Received Scada message: dest=20000, src=3
17:37:47.129
AGA12>>SCM sent DTA payload

... SESSION TIMES-OUT LOCALLY AND IS DISCONNECTED HERE ...

17:37:50.894
AGA12>>Session Timeout for ID 2
17:37:50.895
AGA12>>SCM sending: CLS[3->20000 (2)]
17:37:50.896
AGA12>>SCM remove Session 3 <-> 20000 id=2
 Security Technical 91

9.2.5 System Points

The follow system points are provided for monitoring security status on the SCADAPack E RTU:

Security Information System Point Description

Address

Security Mode Analog Input 57600 0=None

(read only) 1=AGA12 RTU
2=AGA12 Gateway

AGA12 Mixed Mode Binary Input 50740 Enabled / Disabled*

(read/write) * Only Disabled state can be written as per
AGA12 rules

Communication Performance Monitoring

Performance Counter System Point Description

Address
(Analog Input)

AGA12 Open Failures 57610 Session negotiation rejections

(e.g. not a configured or authorized SCM)

AGA12 HMAC Failures 57611 Frames where the verification signature doesn't
match (e.g. content modified, frame corrupted,
key mismatch)

AGA12 ACK Timeouts 57612 Session open attempts where no reply was
received within the timeout period

AGA12 Frames Blocked 57613 AGA12 frames that couldn’t be delivered (e.g. no
configured SCM address)

AGA12 Frames Routed 57614 Successfully routed AGA12 frames

AGA12 Frames Decoded 57615 Successful incoming frames correctly signed and
decrypted

AGA12 Frames Encoded 57616 Outgoing frames successfully delivered

 92 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

10 Attack Vectors & Requirements

The following descriptions are not for an exhaustive analysis of possible attack vectors, rather highlight
usage guidelines (and reasons for those guidelines) when using DNP3 Secure Authentication and/or
AGA12 on SCADAPack E RTUs. The intention is to make the user aware how to maximize the
effectiveness of deploying security.

Configurator or DNP3 to RTU & AGA 12 to RTU 93

Routed Communication to RTU & Access to Gateway 95

RTU Local Port Access, Networked Configurator, & Spoofing Master Address 96
IP Networked RTU & Duplicated RTU Personality 97
 Security Technical 93

10.1 Protocol and Configuration attacks on RTU

Configurator or DNP3 attack on RTU
The attack er uses SCADAPack E Configurator or other DNP3 software, through the SCADA comms
link , to attempt to connect to RTU.
SCADAPack E Configurator uses DNP3 and operates in either clear text or using DNP3 Secure
Authentication (if enabled). Similarly, an attack may attempt to utilize third party software with cleartext
DNP3.
When DNP3 Secure Authentication is licensed and configured on the SCADAPack E RTU, the RTU
challenges critical cleartext messages for itself. If a challenge reply is not forthcoming or is incorrect, the
critical operation is not performed (e.g. control action, configuration change, etc).
When AGA12 security is licensed and configured, the RTU discards cleartext messages for itself
(including wide area ports) other than local clear device port.
If the RTU is secured with DNP3 Secure Authentication, then the RTU may be protected using a default,
common or unique security key. The RTU may optionally require the authentication information to
include username / password credentials.
If the RTU is secured with AGA12, physical access is required to the local clear device port of the RTU.
Remote access via DNP3 is only available through a gateway. External configuration messages to the
RTU are protected. RTU needs to have matching key to the configuration in the gateway. User needs to
have physical or network access to the secured gateway.
The RTU can optionally allow SCADAPack E Configurator software to change keys for maintenance
flexibility. If so configured, it is highly recommended that DNP3 Secure Authentication also be enabled
(so it challenges the writing and activation of the new security configuration).

Protocol Attacks on RTU

The attack er uses a security protocol mechanisms through the wide area network to attempt to connect
to RTU.
If DNP3 Secure Authentication is licensed and configured, protocol attacks are repelled. Knowledge of
the DNP3 security Update Key (Security Administrator Group's Common Key) is necessary for devices
to correctly challenge and authenticate critical actions.
When using AGA12 communications, protocol attacks require the equivalent of an AGA12 Gateway,
such as SCADAPack E RTU. This needs to be licensed and configured with Security and AGA12
Gateway options. Knowledge of both the encryption and hash keys is required for SCM configuration.
The gateway node itself is protected by AGA12.
The AGA12 Gateway in a system needs to be installed in a physically and (networked) logically secure
environment. Use of AGA12 Gateway in field installations is strongly discouraged.

Security Configuration Attacks on RTU

The attack er attempts to build a security configuration file to reconfigure the security settings of an
RTU.
The SCADAPack E Security Administrator application utilizes a system master key inside the security
configuration file. This master key is configured in SCADAPack E RTUs as a security administration
function prior to controllers being installed in the field. Once set for this system, a security configuration
generated by one system cannot be validly used on a different system.
94 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

Setting the Master Key on the Security Administrator application's PC and on each of the physical RTU
devices is an important link in the security chain. This should be carried out by trusted personnel only.
 Security Technical 95

10.2 Routed Communication to RTU & Access to Gateway

Routed Communication to RTU
The attack er routes across a wide area DNP3 SCADA network to attempt to connect to RTU.
DNP3 cleartext, DNP3 Secure Authentication and AGA12-2 SSPP cipher-text messages are routable by
nodes, even when AGA12 is enabled.
The end node is responsible for protecting itself, as per Protocol and Configuration attacks on RTU
93 .

Access to Gateway
An attack er attempts to connect to the AGA12 Gateway.
The Ethernet port on an AGA12 Gateway device is typically enabled for clear device operation, and DNP
routing. Access from beyond the SCADA LAN is required to be protected by firewall. Physical access to
the SCADA LAN would be required to compromise this. It is an important part of the security chain to
protect physical access to the AGA12 Gateway.
An AGA12 Gateway will not answer cleartext requests on its ciphertext ports (even though it may route
clear RTU responses back to the master station).
Remote access back in to the Gateway to read or disrupt routing requires AGA12 access and key
knowledge. See Protocol Attacks on RTU 93 .
Gateway security settings (and in fact security settings) are not exposed through remote links.
 96 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

10.3 RTU Local Port Access, Networked Configurator & Spoofing Master Address
RTU Local Port Access
The attack er connects SCADAPack E Configurator or malicious software to AGA12 local clear device
port on an RTU (at a site or a stolen device).
If AGA12 security is licensed and configured, but DNP3 Secure Authentication is not configured, the
Local RTU may be compromised as physical access is available.
If DNP3 Secure Authentication is used, local configuration or control attempts will be challenged.
If RTU is operating with DNP3 Secure Authentication only, or in AGA12 Mixed Mode, messages may be
routed throughout the network. Each RTU is responsible for its own protection. AGA12 protected RTUs
will discard any cleartext messages from the network. DNP3 Secure Authentication configured devices
will challenge any remote configuration or control attempts.
RTU device will not encrypt cleartext to AGA12 ciphertext.

Networked Configurator
An attack er sitting on a network behind the AGA12 Gateway uses SCADAPack E Configurator to
attempt to connect to RTU.
The SCADA sub-network, where the authorized SCADAPack E Configurator is connected, requires IP
security (e.g. firewall) to prevent unauthorized nodes from accessing the gateway.
If DNP3 Secure Authentication is licensed and configured, critical messages are challenged by the RTU.

Spoofing Master Address

An attack er spoofs the Master Station address to attempt to connect to RTU.
Scenarios are the same as described above for various connection points in the network. Requires either
knowledge of Master address’ encryption and hash keys, or requires physical access to RTUs. May
also be possible through physical or logical access to SCADA LAN in order to access (and route
through) the gateway. See Protocol Attacks on RTU 93 and Networked Configurator 96 .
 Security Technical 97

10.4 IP Networked RTUs & Duplicated RTU Personality

IP Networked RTUs
An attack er connects to the wide area IP network , attempting to connect to RTUs.
IP end-nodes, with DNP3 Secure Authentication enabled, process transported DNP3 frames as if they
were arriving locally. They are treated the same way, so attack vectors described above apply, with
respect to DNP3 data.
IP end-nodes, with AGA12 security enabled, process transported DNP3 frames as if they were arriving
on a standard serial link. AGA12 encrypted DNP3 frames are treated the same way, so attack vectors
described above apply, with respect to DNP3 data.
Remote DNP3 master station or configuration messages arriving at the RTU require either DNP3 Secure
Authentication or AGA12 Encryption security, via an AGA12 Gateway.
IP security for access to IP device connectivity is not used by SCADAPack E RTUs.

Duplicated RTU Personality

An attack er tak es a configuration file, or plug-in media and loads it on a stolen RTU
Security information is not included in standard RTU configurations that can be uploaded from an RTU.
Duplicating the security personality of a protected RTU requires physical access to ‘security key’ media,
possession of an authorized copy of the SCADAPack E Security Administrator software or knowledge of
the keys used in the system.
An intercepted configuration file for a secured RTU cannot be validly loaded on an RTU unless the RTU
has been set with an identical master key (requiring an original master key file as well). It is necessary
to keep original master key files secured).
Security file information is itself encrypted and signed for tamper detection. Contents of a security file
cannot be altered and re-used.
 98 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference

11 Using AGA12 Security Components - Copyright

AGA12 components in the SCADAPack E RTU firmware are based on reference code distributed under
two public software licenses as detailed below.
The text of these licenses are reproduced here in accordance with requirements described in the AGA12
reference source code copyright notices and at http://scadasafe.sourceforge.net/LICENSE.

License for Cisco/AGA 12-1 Reference Implementation

The l i cense appl i es t o al l sof t war e i ncor por at ed i n t he " Ci sco/ AGA
12- 1 Ref er ence I mpl ement at i on" except f or t hose por t i ons
i ncor por at i ng t hi r d par t y sof t war e speci f i cal l y i dent i f i ed as bei ng
l i censed under separ at e l i cense.
The Ci sco Syst ems Publ i c Sof t war e Li cense, Ver si on 1. 0
Copyr i ght ( c) 2000 Ci sco Syst ems, I nc. Al l r i ght s r eser ved.
Subj ect t o t he f ol l owi ng t er ms and condi t i ons, Ci sco Syst ems, I nc. ,
her eby gr ant s you a wor l dwi de, r oyal t y- f r ee, nonexcl usi ve, l i cense,
subj ect t o t hi r d par t y i nt el l ect ual pr oper t y cl ai ms, t o cr eat e
der i vat i ve wor ks of t he Li censed Code and t o r epr oduce, di spl ay,
per f or m, subl i cense, di st r i but e such Li censed Code and der i vat i ve
wor ks. Al l r i ght s not expr essl y gr ant ed her ei n ar e r eser ved.
1. Redi st r i but i ons of sour ce code must r et ai n t he above copyr i ght
not i ce, t hi s l i st of condi t i ons and t he f ol l owi ng di scl ai mer .
2. Redi st r i but i ons i n bi nar y f or m must r epr oduce t he above
copyr i ght not i ce, t hi s l i st of condi t i ons and t he f ol l owi ng
di scl ai mer i n t he document at i on and/ or ot her mat er i al s pr ovi ded
wi t h t he di st r i but i on.
3. The names Ci sco and " Ci sco/ AGA 12- 1 Ref er ence I mpl ement at i on"
must not be used t o endor se or pr omot e pr oduct s der i ved f r om t hi s
sof t war e wi t hout pr i or wr i t t en per mi ssi on. For wr i t t en per mi ssi on,
pl ease cont act opensour ce@ci sco. com.
4. Pr oduct s der i ved f r om t hi s sof t war e may not be cal l ed " Ci sco" or
" Ci sco/ AGA" , nor may " Ci sco" or " Ci sco/ AGA" appear i n t hei r name,
wi t hout pr i or wr i t t en per mi ssi on of Ci sco Syst ems, I nc.
THI S SOFTWARE I S PROVI DED " AS I S" AND ANY EXPRESSED OR I MPLI ED
WARRANTI ES, I NCLUDI NG, BUT NOT LI MI TED TO, THE I MPLI ED WARRANTI ES
OF MERCHANTABI LI TY, FI TNESS FOR A PARTI CULAR PURPOSE, TI TLE AND
NON- I NFRI NGEMENT ARE DI SCLAI MED. I N NO EVENT SHALL CI SCO SYSTEMS,
I NC. OR I TS CONTRI BUTORS BE LI ABLE FOR ANY I NDI RECT, I NCI DENTAL,
SPECI AL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTI AL DAMAGES ( I NCLUDI NG, BUT NOT
LI MI TED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTI TUTE GOODS OR SERVI CES; LOSS OF
USE, DATA, OR PROFI TS; OR BUSI NESS I NTERRUPTI ON) HOWEVER CAUSED AND
ON ANY THEORY OF LI ABI LI TY, WHETHER I N CONTRACT, STRI CT LI ABI LI TY,
OR TORT ( I NCLUDI NG NEGLI GENCE OR OTHERWI SE) ARI SI NG I N ANY WAY OUT
OF THE USE OF THI S SOFTWARE, EVEN I F ADVI SED OF THE POSSI BI LI TY OF
SUCH DAMAGE. THI S LI MI TATI ON OF LI ABI LI TY SHALL NOT APPLY TO
 Security Technical 99

LI ABI LI TY FOR DEATH OR PERSONAL I NJURY RESULTI NG FROM SUCH PARTY' S

NEGLI GENCE TO THE EXTENT APPLI CABLE LAW PROHI BI TS SUCH LI MI TATI ON.
SOME JURI SDI CTI ONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSI ON OR LI MI TATI ON OF
I NCI DENTAL OR CONSEQUENTI AL DAMAGES, SO THAT EXCLUSI ON AND
LI MI TATI ON MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. FURTHER, YOU AGREE THAT I N NO
EVENT WI LL CI SCO' S LI ABI LI TY UNDER OR RELATED TO THI S AGREEMENT
EXCEED AMOUNT FI VE THOUSAND DOLLARS ( US) ( US$5, 000) .

LICENSE TERMS
Copyr i ght ( c) 2002, Dr Br i an Gl adman, Wor cest er , UK. Al l r i ght s
r eser ved.
The f r ee di st r i but i on and use of t hi s sof t war e i n bot h sour ce and
bi nar y f or m i s al l owed ( wi t h or wi t hout changes) pr ovi ded t hat :
1. di st r i but i ons of t hi s sour ce code i ncl ude t he above copyr i ght
not i ce, t hi s l i st of condi t i ons and t he f ol l owi ng di scl ai mer ;
2. di st r i but i ons i n bi nar y f or m i ncl ude t he above copyr i ght not i ce,
t hi s l i st of condi t i ons and t he f ol l owi ng di scl ai mer i n t he
document at i on and/ or ot her associ at ed mat er i al s;
3. t he copyr i ght hol der ' s name i s not used t o endor se pr oduct s
bui l t usi ng t hi s sof t war e wi t hout speci f i c wr i t t en per mi ssi on.
ALTERNATI VELY, pr ovi ded t hat t hi s not i ce i s r et ai ned i n f ul l , t hi s
pr oduct may be di st r i but ed under t he t er ms of t he GNU Gener al
Publ i c Li cense ( GPL) , i n whi ch case t he pr ovi si ons of t he GPL appl y
I NSTEAD OF t hose gi ven above.
DI SCLAI MER
Thi s sof t war e i s pr ovi ded ' as i s' wi t h no expl i ci t or i mpl i ed
war r ant i es i n r espect of i t s pr oper t i es, i ncl udi ng, but not l i mi t ed
t o, cor r ect ness and/ or f i t ness f or pur pose.
100 SCADAPack E Security Technical Reference