Reliable, high-performance communication networks are the backbone of the digitally connected world. Modern societies depend on stable and secure networks for business, public services, critical infrastructure, and disaster relief. However, high-performance broadband access is not universal. Moreover, new technologies and the transition to wireless networks create new demands for security data protection, and stable transmission quality.
“Salzburg Research is leading the development of secure, reliable, and high-performance communication networks, ranging from broadband provision and smart metering systems to crisis-proof communication solutions.”
Salzburg Research began researching communication technologies at a time when internet access was available only via modems. Even then, the focus was on various quality aspects of networks, such as reliability, performance, and security. In addition to helping public authorities provide broadband, especially in underserved rural areas, the research institute developed a system to evaluate mobile network performance. Salzburg Research successfully tested robust and secure smart grid communication using Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Another milestone was operating one of the first 5G standalone networks in Austria. In the vendor-independent research infrastructure, various configurations were tested to exclude interactions between applications and ensure security and privacy. At the same time, vendor-independent methods and tools were developed to monitor relevant network properties. As wireless communication networks became more widespread, Salzburg Research developed customized network quality measurement system for safety-critical applications and a crisis-proof mobile communication infrastructure for international disaster relief operations. Disasters such as earthquakes, fires, and chemical spills pose immense challenges for emergency responders, especially when communication networks fail. Salzburg Research also developed software architecture that uses machine learning to detect and respond to anomalies in real-time communication networks.
From emergency communications to seamless broadband coverage to interactive 5G applications, Salzburg Research demonstrates how innovative technologies can improve digital infrastructure in a sustainable way while creating added value for society.
Research questions:
- What methods and tools are necessary for evaluating communication networks?
- How should they be designed to ensure secure and reliable data exchange?
- Which architectures and protocols are best for implementing domain-specific communication requirements?
All the figures, data, facts, success stories and activities for our anniversary: www.salzburgresearch.at/en/25-years-of-salzburg-research/
