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Cisco develops new communications network for positive train control
This is an interesting concept. Cisco is a world class, leading company. It is also very expensive. It certainly opens the door to many new developments that would ride on an integrated TCP/IP infrastructure along the road. Quality of Service can better ensure the important packets - data - like PTC will have priority.
If they can make passenger internet access work better than the current system of cellular-based modems, they’ll really have something.
Of course, just like the Internet and WiFi, it is only a matter of time before the hackers figure it out and find out that sabotaging trains by tampering with couplers and airlines is old fashioned. Instead they will simply tap in with their smart phone app and take over control of the train. Don’t believe it? About a decade or so ago, how long did it take to convince the average business of the importance of securing the company computers and network before they were hacked?
Cisco’s technology is all about “the transmission of selected data”, including encryption protection, and other innovative safeguards. Mr Guse usual pessimism is not in sync with current technology.
I think Jeffrey Guse wants to go back to the 1800’s. No real regulation of railroads by the government, no safety regulations, no technology and government land giveaways to corporations. I personally am glad to see major tech companies trying to perfect PTC.
Hackers succeed only when proper security measures are ignored - it’s like leaving the keys in your car’s ignition. It’s not the technology - it’s people being lazy.