GPS Security – What You Need to Know

An in-depth Q&A with Beacham Still, Director of Business Development at Syncworks, on critical timing infrastructure and emerging synchronization technologies. Our thanks to GPS World magazine and its Editor-in-Chief, Matteo Luccio, for  graciously allowing us to use his interview transcript for this post.

Core GPS Timing Capabilities and Solutions

What are Syncworks’ core capabilities in GPS timing and network synchronization?

We are a 25-year partner of Microchip Frequency and Time Systems (formerly Microsemi / SYMMETRICOM), serving as a leading value-add reseller, engineering partner, and implementation service team. Our expertise spans telecommunications, power utilities, transportation networks, and cable companies, helping address critical synchronization and timing challenges. We specialize in helping organizations transition from traditional TDM frequency BITS synchronization to modern precision packet-based timing solutions.

Understanding GPS Timing vs. Positioning

How do GPS timing requirements differ from GPS positioning requirements?

While positioning often gets more attention, timing is absolutely critical for network operation and stability. The key difference lies in the static nature of timing receivers versus the mobile nature of positioning applications. Timing infrastructure faces unique challenges, particularly regarding interference both unintentional and intentional. The static location of timing receivers makes them more susceptible to prolonged jamming and spoofing attacks.

GPS Timing Infrastructure Challenges

What are the main GPS timing challenges facing U.S. infrastructure?

One of our biggest challenges is the proliferation of personal GPS jammers. While federally illegal to operate, these devices are readily available through online retailers. This creates significant issues for static GPS installations, particularly those near truck stops, nightclubs, and other locations where individuals might want to avoid vehicle tracking. Since our power distribution systems and substations are located within the communities they serve, they’re vulnerable to repeated interference incidents.

Modern Timing Solutions and Protection

What solutions exist for GPS timing interference protection?

Network resilience requires multiple approaches:

• Understanding interference sources through site audits and monitoring tools
• Designing networks with the expectation of interference
• Implementing high-quality oscillators for holdover capabilities
• Deploying precision packet timing for reference redundancy
• Exploring alternative timing sources including eLoran and terrestrial-based signals
• Utilizing low Earth orbit satellites to reduce GNSS reliance

Precision Packet Timing Evolution

How is precision packet timing transforming network synchronization?

The industry is experiencing a fundamental shift from TDM to IP and packet-based networks. While TDM networks were inherently synchronous and focused on frequency synchronization, modern networks require UTC-traceable time of day with nanosecond accuracy. This transition particularly impacts:

• Edge computing applications
• Global network interconnectivity
• High-speed, low-latency services
• Network stability and security

Industry-Specific Requirements

How do timing requirements vary across different industries?

Different sectors have unique drivers and requirements:

• Power Utilities: Focus on substation automation and virtualized protection schemes
• Financial Services: Competitive advantages in high-frequency trading
• Telecommunications: Legacy service migration alongside new technology adoption
• Transportation: Safety systems like positive train control
• Data Centers: Emerging timing-as-a-service offerings

Future of Network Synchronization

What is the future of GPS timing and network synchronization?

The industry is moving toward greater resilience and reduced GPS dependence. Key trends include:

• Enhanced Primary Reference Time Clock (EPRTC) architectures maintaining 100 nanoseconds accuracy over three weeks
• Integration of cesium atomic clocks with PTP networks
• Shift toward terrestrial PTP-based networks
• Using GPS as a backup rather than primary reference
• Increased focus on timing security and stability

Implementing Modern GPS Timing Solutions

When implementing GPS timing solutions for critical infrastructure, organizations must consider both immediate and future needs. Modern timing networks require careful planning to address potential vulnerabilities while maintaining precise synchronization standards. Syncworks helps customers navigate these challenges by providing comprehensive system audits, customized deployment strategies, and ongoing support services. Through careful integration of traditional GPS timing with emerging technologies like precision packet timing, organizations can build resilient networks that meet evolving synchronization requirements while maintaining security and reliability standards.

The future of GPS timing solutions continues to evolve, with increased focus on hybrid approaches that combine satellite-based timing with terrestrial alternatives. This diversification helps ensure continued operation even during GPS disruptions, making it essential for modern critical infrastructure.

About the Expert: Beacham Still is the Director of Business Development and Operations Lead at Syncworks, a leading provider of timing and synchronization solutions for critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and enterprise applications.