The evolution of the power grid into the smart grid will involve the expansion and integration of advanced communications and information technology into all aspects of utility operations, from power generation to the point at which power is used. Utilities will have a whole new level of visibility and control of applications and devices that will help improve grid reliability and efficiency. Data will be available and will benefit customers and utilities. Centralized visibility and control of systems and devices will help increase overall grid reliability and enable more real-time decision-making. With the evolution of the smart grid, data volume is vastly increased and highly distributed, making a utility’s approach to security a new challenge that requires a new approach.