Software-based evaluation of pseudorandom frequency-hopping for wireless infocommunication cybersecurity

Purpose. Improving the efficiency of mobile and satellite system design by developing and validating a computer model that allows objective comparison of different approaches to implementing frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS). Methodology. Computer-experiment methods in Python were used to generate a complex I/Q signal with oversampling and phase fluctuations. Three data transmission modes were implemented in the software: without FHSS, random FHSS, and FHSS based on a linear feedback shift register (LFSR). Selective narrowband jamming and ML-based interception attacks were simulated. The effectiveness of the algorithms was evaluated using the following metrics: BER, EVM, and SNRout. Graphical interpretations included time and spectral dependencies, constellation diagrams, and a confusion matrix. Findings. A computer model was implemented to evaluate the effectiveness and suitability of FHSS algorithms for cyber protection of mobile and satellite communications. It was established that the LFSR FHSS provided the best indicators for the set of metrics. In FHSS modes, energy dispersion in frequency and time is observed, which reduces the probability of affected spectral regions and increases the noise immunity of data transmission. The output signal-to-noise ratio for these modes under selective jamming conditions is satisfactory. The need for further research into the development of adaptive FHSS approaches and spectral-feature masking mechanisms has been substantiated. Originality. The patterns of influence of FHSS algorithms on indicators of interference immunity and data interception at the physical level of wireless systems were determined. Approaches to a comprehensive comparative assessment of the effectiveness of FHSS algorithms under additive noise, jamming, and intelligent interception were developed. Practical value. The developed computer model is suitable for comparative analysis of FHSS algorithms in wireless systems under conditions of noise, jamming and interception. The proposed model can be used to select rational FHSS schemes during the design of cyber-secure mobile and satellite systems.