Telstra’s Network Affected by Unlogged Time Change
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Quick Overview
- Telstra is experiencing a nationwide mobile service disruption due to unlogged configuration alterations and obsolete firmware.
- An undocumented modification raised a server’s time authority status, resulting in interruptions.
- The outdated GPS card reset the network’s clock to 2006, causing errors in customer devices.
- Telstra has received 8,000 requests for compensation, with $100,000 already disbursed.
- Telstra has partnered with Technology Audit Partners for a comprehensive investigation.
Understanding the Outage
The recent mobile network outage at Telstra is linked to a combination of an unlogged configuration modification and an overlooked firmware update on its Symmetricom SSU-2000 Network Time Synchronisation System. This detail emerged during a senate inquiry, revealing additional complexity to the initial assessment of the problem.
Telstra initially identified a node tasked with timekeeping in its mobile network as the source of the disruption. Accurate timekeeping is vital for mobile networks, structured into various layers or “stratums.” Telstra utilizes the Network Time Protocol (NTP), relying on atomic clocks at Stratum 0 as the primary time source.
Clarifying the Timekeeping Issue
In Telstra’s standard network configuration, the SSU-2000 occupies Stratum 3 in the time hierarchy. However, a failure to connect with Stratum 2 servers led to an undocumented rise to Stratum 1. This adjustment permitted the unit to rely on its onboard GPS card for timekeeping, which had not been updated due to its prior inactivity.
Public records indicate that the SSU-2000 is roughly 24 years old, with GPS cards using a legacy time counter that resets every 1024 weeks. This caused the internal clock to revert to November 2006, resulting in devices showing incorrect dates and potentially interfering with secure communications.
Compensation and Inquiry
Michael Ackland, Telstra’s CFO, mentioned that the company has handled about 8,000 compensation requests, with $100,000 already compensated. Bigger claims are still being evaluated. CEO Vicki Brady confirmed the engagement of Technology Audit Partners to carry out a thorough examination of the incident.
Conclusion
The Telstra network disruption highlights the crucial need for maintaining up-to-date system configurations and documentation. As Telstra manages customer compensations and ongoing investigations, this event serves as a reminder of the complex interdependencies in telecommunications networks.
Common Questions
Reader questions
Frequently asked questions
Fast answers to the questions readers ask most about Telstra's Network Affected by Unlogged Time Change.
What led to the Telstra network disruption?
The disruption resulted from an unlogged configuration change coupled with an outdated firmware update on a timekeeping unit.
In what way did the timekeeping problem impact customers?
Customers faced incorrect device times, which could have disrupted secure communications and network access.
What actions is Telstra taking to resolve the issue?
Telstra has brought in Technology Audit Partners for a comprehensive investigation and is processing compensation claims from those affected.
How much compensation has Telstra disbursed to date?
Telstra has issued around $100,000 in compensation, with larger claims still under consideration.
What function does the SSU-2000 serve in Telstra's network?
The SSU-2000 is integral to Telstra’s timekeeping framework, typically situated at Stratum 3 in the network time structure.
Why was the GPS card not updated?
The GPS card was not updated because it was not in active use; its significance grew after the server’s undocumented rise to Stratum 1.
