A Resilient and Optimization-Driven Approach to Enhancing Network Stability in Microgrid Distributed Control Under Denial-of-Service Attacks
Article
Taher, MA, Sarwat, A. (2026). A Resilient and Optimization-Driven Approach to Enhancing Network Stability in Microgrid Distributed Control Under Denial-of-Service Attacks
. IEEE ACCESS, 10.1109/ACCESS.2026.3708319
Taher, MA, Sarwat, A. (2026). A Resilient and Optimization-Driven Approach to Enhancing Network Stability in Microgrid Distributed Control Under Denial-of-Service Attacks
. IEEE ACCESS, 10.1109/ACCESS.2026.3708319
As modern power grids evolve, microgrids play a crucial role in ensuring energy resilience. However, their reliance on distributed control systems also makes them vulnerable to Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks, which can disrupt communication between distributed energy resources (DERs), leading to instability in voltage regulation and power distribution. This paper explores how DoS attacks alter communication network structures, degrade system performance, and threaten the integrity of microgrid operations. Using graph theory and Laplacian matrix analysis, we quantify the extent of these disruptions and propose a resilient communication framework designed to enhance stability, delay tolerance, and attack resistance. Through extensive simulations on the IEEE 34-bus test system, we demonstrate that our optimized network design improves microgrid robustness, even under severe cyberattacks. To bridge the gap between theory and real-world application, we further validate our approach using real-time OPAL-RT hardware simulations, reinforcing its effectiveness in safeguarding microgrids against emerging cyber threats. This study highlights the need for proactive cybersecurity measures to ensure the reliability of future power systems in an increasingly digitalized energy landscape.
