Next-generation Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks overcome the gaps in terrestrial network coverage, providing high-speed, low-latency connectivity anywhere needed, even in remote locations, where it’s neither feasible nor practical to deploy fibre.
While this extended connectivity is vital, satellite links must be integrated with terrestrial telecom networks without creating security challenges. For service providers and global enterprises alike, cybersecurity has become a baseline requirement, not an option, for business success. Strategic security questions require detailed answers if enterprise customers are to trust non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) in the same way as terrestrial telecom infrastructure.
Cybersecurity is imperative for LEO networks that serve enterprises
Enterprise environments—whether in aviation, maritime, telecom, or energy—operate under tight regulatory scrutiny and evolving cyber threats. These sectors rely on seamless and secure communications to protect company and customer data, facilitate real-time transactions, and maintain operational continuity.
Airlines, for instance, require robust protection of inflight systems and networks carrying credit card and personal data. Maritime operators must secure critical vessel communications while traversing international waters. Telecom providers increasingly demand detailed security posture disclosures as part of their contracting process.
Enterprises expect satellite networks to uphold the same rigorous security standards as their terrestrial counterparts, and to integrate into their operations without compromising control, performance, or trust.
A structured approach: Domains and dimensions of security
Addressing enterprise security imperatives for NTNs requires a robust security posture across three interconnected domains:
- Core infrastructure, which includes LEO satellites, core ground infrastructure, and network operations software. Multiple nodes across space and ground must be protected to prevent unwarranted access to the network.
- User terminals, which are the hardware that connect users to the network, and must be certified to meet defined security protocols.
- Users, which includes the individuals and enterprise systems that access the network through portals or APIs, and where human error and mismanagement remain critical risks.
LEO satellite network operators should apply the following protections across each of these three domains:
- Standards compliance
The network must adhere to globally recognized security frameworks, such as:- NIST 800-53: Cybersecurity control implementation and risk management
- IA-Pre and CPCSC: Defense-grade standards should be applied to meet the heightened assurance requirements of Allied nation defense customers
These standards provide a consistent baseline for secure design and implementation across space and ground infrastructure.
- Secure communications
All critical data must be encrypted, while in transit and at rest using hardened algorithms. Users should have complete control over encrypting their data while it traverses third-party satellite networks. In addition, secure terminal authentication mechanisms are required to ensure that only pre-validated, authorized devices can establish a connection.
User access must be provided through digital interfaces, such as portals and APIs, that support role-based access controls and multi-factor authentication to ensure secure, traceable interactions with the network.
- Cybersecurity operations
Security demands strong execution, which means the satellite operator must continuously monitor the LEO network using tools such as:- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs)
The satellite operator should also continuously monitor and assess Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) and supply chain risks, and apply software patches and mitigations in real time. And they should simulate incident response procedures to ensure operational readiness.
The key is to treat every software update, supplier dependency, and configuration change as a potential risk vector.
Carrier Ethernet is a tailored approach for enterprise-first LEO networks
Some LEO satellite operators offer Internet-centric models that rely on Layer 3 tunneling and VPN overlays. However, a Layer 2 architecture delivering Carrier Ethernet services enables direct, point-to-point connectivity with deterministic performance and fewer security layers to manage.
This design is especially valuable for telecom carriers and enterprise customers that require:
- Transparent routing of traffic through trusted, private links
- Integration into existing SD-WAN or MPLS environments
- Simplified terminal validation and VLAN mapping
- The ability to control and manage encryption independently
This Layer 2 foundation isn’t just a technical preference. It’s a strategic enabler of secure, enterprise-first networking.
A LEO platform built for trust
Telesat Lightspeed is not simply about connecting the unconnected—it’s about doing so securely, reliably, and on enterprise terms. With a hardened infrastructure, proactive cybersecurity operations, and an architecture designed for seamless integration, Telesat Lightspeed delivers more than just connectivity – it delivers peace of mind.
As enterprises face a future defined by distributed operations and constant threats, their connectivity partners must rise to the challenge and add satellite services to their ecosystems. Telesat has the platforms, processes, and principles needed to deliver trusted LEO satellite connectivity, enabling service providers and enterprises to thrive securely in the LEO era.
