C3 interoperability issues: an overview of GOSIP network conformance testing in the evolution of the Defense Information System Network (DSIN)

Abstract

This thesis analyzes some of the evolving commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies and potential difficulties in implementing the proposed Defense Information System Network (DSIN) based on Government Open Systems Interconnection Profile (GOSIP) compliance and Integrated Services digital Network (ISDN) conformance testing. It starts by examining the MILDEPs Command, Control and Communications (C3) network architectures by providing brief descriptions of the various standards. Not only does it examine such technologies as Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), Synchronous Optical Network (SONET), Fast Packet Switching (FPS), and Broadband ISDN, but it also highlights some of the ISDN conformance test suites with a view toward migrating these architectures and technologies to the DISN. Results indicate that incompatibilities between C3 networks will be impacted more in the DISN near term and transition phases than in the far term. This is due in part to embedded proprietary functions permeating COTS products and the lack of fully developed ISDN conformance test specifications. The lack of clearly defined standards is a major cause of proprietary implementations. Coupled with the limited availability of ISDN conformance test suites to test multi-vendored MILDEP networks, this will make deployment of the DISN a challenge. Recommendations for further research are also presented.