Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is CENTS™?

A: The Cyber-operations Enhanced Network Training Simulators (CENTS™) is a network security training capability developed by EADS North America, Security and Systems Solutions, Inc.

CENTS™ is a line of products designed to simulate a customer’s full network environment, training operators to recognize and defend the most malicious cyber attacks. Functioning totally independent of the operational network, CENTS™ allows high risk activities to be performed in a controlled environment, and enables network operators to be exposed to real-life cyber threat situations.

Q: What products are available through the CENTS™ line?

A: Currently, there are four products available for purchase:

CyberAttack Network Exploitation (CANE)

Designed for the Department of Defense and Federal Agencies, CANE™ is focused on developing system and network administrator operational readiness. With this simulator, customers can conduct both attack/exploitation and defense in a single, safe environment.

CyberSecurity Network Training Simulator (CYNTRS™)

Our widely successful commercial product CYNTRS™, is primarily focused on improving network defense. Examples of proficiency available through CYNTRS™ are:

  • Computer Network Defense (CND) Crew Training

  • Test and Evaluation Services

  • Verification and Validation Services

For more information on CYNTRS™ or for pricing information, please visit the CYNTRS™ website at www.cyntrs.com.

Hands-On Training Simulator (HOTSIM™)

The HOTSIM™ product is designed for network training providers, both Government and Commercial. This compact and streamlined simulators core focus is on training individuals and small teams in CND best practices.

Range End Unit (REU™)

The original cyber range simulator. The REU™ has been in use by the DoD since 2002. This product stands ready to quickly integrate into current and future cyber ranges.

IPv6 Simulator (SIXS™)

The SIXS™ simulator is the perfect tool for IPv6 transitioning services. SIXS™ is a IPv6 capable solution which allows for training on a variety of IPv6 instances such as, infrastructure, network operations, applications, and CND.

Test & Evaluation Simulator (TESIM™)

Allows government and commercial customers to perform Test and Evaluation services in a secure and clean environment. It's the perfect 'sandbox' solution for Security Test and Evaluation (ST&E) efforts but also for next generation testing and research.

Q: How do the CENTS™ products work?

A: The CENTS™ product line is based on the concept of a flight simulator, giving network operators high-fidelity training in defending and protecting networks against malicious attacks. Configured identically to the operational network, or customized to fit specific customer needs, the CENTS™ products teaches operators how to recognize and respond to attacks in a controlled network environment.

The CENTS™ simulator is installed at the customer’s location of choice, simulating all of the network architecture resources.

Typical network resources include:

  • Switches

  • Routers

  • Application/File Servers

  • Sensor systems

  • Firewalls

A traffic generator simulates typical computer network users and traffic. The easy to use SLAM-R™ software suite is used to conduct a full range of cyber attacks, simulate outages and malfunctions, and can emulate user problems on every level of the network.

Q: How will CENTS™ benefit my organization?

A: CENTS™ benefits organizations in a variety of ways including:

Training Capabilities

  • Provides hands-on computer network defense training and training for the certification of system and network administrators/security professionals.

  • Gives organizations the means to develop targeted training material based on their actual network configuration with no impact to the operational environment.

    • Validation

  • Allows validation of security processes, procedures, techniques and communications.

  • Organizations can validate security management and information assurance policies.

    • Test and Evaluation Capabilities

  • Grants organizations an environment in which to evaluate and test new network security and system technology tools and resources.

  • Provides a means for organizations to perform risk assessments on their current network architecture and policies, as well as identifying risks associated with future implementations.

  • Performance testing.

    • Q: What is a scenario?

    A: A scenario consists of a predefined network attack. The attack is designed to test a defender’s ability to locate and fend off aggressive activity on a network. Through the use of a CENTS™ simulator , the operational network is safe while personnel receive the critical training necessary to protect sensitive data and network dependability.

    Q: How many scenarios are available in a basic CENTS™ package? What if I want additional scenarios?

    A: With the basic package there are three pre-defined attack scenarios. There are also additional scenarios available through our customized solutions offerings.

    Please contact the CENTS Program Office to see what additional options are available.

    Q: Are customized scenarios possible?

    A: We can create customized scenarios built to your specific needs. If there is a particular attack that you would like to have created, we have a dedicated software team to make it happen. The time required to make customized scenarios varies based on the complexity of the attack.

    Please contact us for more information.

    Q: What is involved in getting a customized solution?

    A: A customized solution involves having a team of engineers come to your location. We will sit down with you and go over all the current tools you have on your network and develop a solution that fits your needs. We will then create a package to mimic your network design. Our custom solution will use the same infrastructure devices, operating systems, firewalls, IDS/IPS, etc. that your network is currently utilizing.

    Q: What is involved in the installation process?

    A: First, we build the simulator at our processing center. Then we repackage and deliver the pre-configured equipment to the site location. Our installation team will then rebuild the range on-site using the site survey checklist. The site survey checklist lists requirements for space, electrical, and HVAC requirements and is completed by the customer and CENTS™ engineers prior to building the simulator.

    Q: Can I purchase engineering support with my package?

    A: Engineering support is available in several different ways.

    Hourly – Plan your events in advance and have an engineer available for just the time you need.

    Yearly – have an engineer on site all year long to assist in the planning and execution of any and all training events.

    As needed – Call to have an engineer available during your planned event.

    Q: How much does CENTS™ cost? Whom do I contact for additional CENTSrmal"™ information?

    A: For pricing information regarding the CENTS™ product line or for any additional questions, please contact the following personnel listed below.

    Ms. Malissa McLean
    CENTS™ Program Manager
    Tel 866-206-8146 (Toll Free)

    For CYNTRS™ simulators, please see our website, or contact:

    Mr. Larry KinCannon
    Director of Program Management, EADS North America
    Tel 703-236-7523

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