Security and Privacy in Cyber-Physical Systems

Chapter 16Cyber Security of Smart Buildings

Steffen Wendzel, Jernej Tonejc, Jaspreet Kaur and Alexandra Kobekova

Department of Cyber Security, Fraunhofer FKIE, Friedrich-Ebert-Allee 144, D-53113 Bonn, Germany

16.1 What Is a Smart Building?

A smart building is a building equipped with integrated technology systems such as building automation, life safety, telecommunications, user systems, and facility management systems. Traditionally, these systems were installed separately in the buildings. Due to the interoperability and interdependence of data among these systems, the concept of fully integrated smart buildings came into existence. These buildings aim at achieving greater energy efficiency and reducing operational costs. Special wiring is used in their installation, which enables inhabitants to remotely control or program an array of automated home electronic devices by entering a single command. The main goal of a smart building is to connect data, people, and systems. Fully integrated systems provide the most cost-effective approach to the design and the deployment of a building. The benefits of smart buildings also include enhanced life safety and security, and effective service for the inhabitants.

16.1.1 Definition of the Term

In recent literature and industrial reports, the term smart has been introduced and it is used quite often nowadays. This trend is followed among all the aspects of a building environment sector, which includes smart sensors, smart devices, and ...