ATM-encryption with 155 Mbit/s

Already today, ATM networks are not only used in backbone configurations of corporate networks, but also to connect local area networks (LAN). Personal computers and workstations can be equipped with ATM interfaces, as well as other devices that require high transmission rates, i.e., video cameras. ATM encryption devices are required in order to guarantee data confidentiality during transmission. The ATM Forum has defined security specifications for this. This contribution presents the ATM encryption technology, the difficulty with synchronization, as well as its realizability. The described implementation uses SDH/SONET connections with 155 Mbit/s as network interfaces, VLSI components for the encryption algorithm, and FPGA modules for the management and control of the ATM encryption.