Employing a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) infrastructure as a global command and control gateway to dynamically connect and disconnect diverse forces on a task-force-by-task-force basis

Abstract

GHOSTNet is a secure and anonymous Virtual Private Network (VPN) service. Coupling Ethernet tunneling and proxy services to provide users safe and anonymous Internet access, GHOSTNet utilizes TLS (SSL) protocol with AES-256 encryption to secure the network along with PKI certificates and HMAC protection from replay attacks and UDP flooding. This thesis will be a system level test and evaluation of the GHOSTNet infrastructure. The primary objective is to determine the functional performance of GHOSTNet as a global command and control gateway with the goal of being able to dynamically connect and disconnect diverse forces on a task-force-by-task-force basis. To accomplish this objective, a robust test and evaluation plan will be implemented to base line the system in the moderate operating conditions of COASTS field experiments conducted at Camp Roberts. The system will then be tested in various operation environments to include, but not limited to, Fort Ord, the U.S. Cost Guard Station Monterey Bay, and Southern Thailand as part of the COASTS field experimentation program spanning FY 2008 and FY2009.