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8/26/2016

Lilee Systems: Key management system for PTC

Lilee Systems has expanded its range of positive train control (PTC) software products with the introduction of the "key management system" (KMS), a solution created and implemented by a Class I railroad.

KMS enables rail operators to fully comply with PTC key management and security requirements. With the acquisition of the system, Lilee has the first commercially available product in the market that can offer proven integration with the Lilee systems management suite (SMS), company officials said in a press release.

Lilee's KMS provides secure storage for cryptographic material used in PTC. The software includes a key server or key store and an interoperable key exchange service (KES), as well as the required interoperable train control (ITC) systems management asset registry. KMS also facilitates secure distribution of keys and certificates to the field where they are used by telecom, signal and mechanical technicians who install and maintain the equipment that uses these keys and certificates.

Currently in use by a Class I railroad, the KMS offers an industry standard interface that can be used by back office servers to obtain locomotive keys. It is a comprehensive solution for management of Operational Private Keys (referred to as OPKs or HMAC keys) and X.509 certificates used for communication with remote PTC devices to authenticate messages and encrypt/decrypt for basic functions and management of system operation, Lilee officials said.

In addition, KMS helps signal engineering departments create and document wayside locations and distribute generated OPKs and certificates for installation in wayside and locomotive systems. KMS can also be used as the system of record for train crew PINs to log in to the onboard during initialization.

The Lilee SMS, now adopted by four Class I railroads, provides comprehensive device and systems management capability across a railroad, including capabilities necessary to manage wayside, locomotive, base station, and back office assets.

On Aug. 30, Lilee Vice President-North America Kevin Nichter will present more details about the system at the AREMA 2016 Annual Conference in Orlando.