Khumalo, Zephania PhilaniNleya, Bakhe2017-03-102017-03-102016-02Khumalo, P. and Nleya, B .2016. Secured smart grid network for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). SAIEE Smart Grid Conference. 1-6.http://hdl.handle.net/10321/2355Smart Grids are generally modern electric power network technology systems used by power utility to optimise the efficiency of power supply. While it is good practice to introduce Smart Grid technology, the use of digital technology introduces security threats on Smart Grid systems. Smart Grids mostly have a sophisticated network arrangement which may be exploited to access private information and private sensitive data therefore there is a need to secure it. Energy theft and the metering information are amongst the biggest fears related to the Smart Grid application. This paper will discuss Smart Grid security technology challenges and possible effective solutions. Particularly overcoming Smart Grid security challenges, a robust communications protocol that will implement security functionalities is required. The solution aspect should include but not be limited to encryption of messages, minimizing delays due to cryptographic processes and guaranteeing integrity of these messages with negligible latency. Smart Grid is a part of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and the whole network need to be secured. Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) will be implemented to enhance security of this network. Using OPNET and Java NetBeans 8.2 complier it will be proven that the AES or modified AES will best serve the Power Line Communications (PLC) Smart Grid security challenges.6 penPower Line CommunicationsSmart MeteringSmart GridAdvanced Encryption StandardAdvance Metering Infrastructure,SecurityArticle