Published Paper Details:

As smart grid systems continue to evolve through the integration of advanced communication technologies and an increasing number of interconnected devices, the imperative for robust cybersecurity measures has become paramount. This study examines the current state of smart grid cybersecurity, emphasizing the challenges arising from heterogeneous environments and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) components. It investigates various machine learning methodologies designed to enhance threat detection, response capabilities, and overall system resilience. Furthermore, this study identified significant deficiencies in the existing architecture, particularly regarding protocol compatibility and data aggregation security. To address these issues, a novel proposal for a unified IPv6-based communication layer is introduced, which simplifies connectivity, mitigates security vulnerabilities, and facilitates direct Internet access for all devices. This framework not only improves the efficiency of data transmission but also strengthens the security posture of smart grids through the implementation of IP-based security protocols. These findings underscore the necessity of advancing cybersecurity measures in smart grids and delineate future research directions aimed at developing comprehensive strategies to ensure the integrity and resilience of this critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.