Erikoisverkot

Erikoisverkot is a Finnish term that translates literally to “special networks.” The expression is used primarily in the contexts of national security, emergency management, and industrial telecommunications. In Finland, the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Defence classify erikoisverkot as a set of purpose‑built data and voice communication systems that are separate from the general public telecommunications infrastructure. The networks are designed to operate under conditions of high reliability, low latency, and strict security requirements.

Typical erikoisverkot encompass several functional layers. The most common layer is the tactical network, which supports field units such as police, fire departments and the Finnish Defence Forces in real‑time information exchange and coordination. A second layer comprises command‑and‑control channels used at higher command echelons; these channels are hardened against eavesdropping and interference. Many erikoisverkot also provide dedicated bandwidth for critical services such as traffic management, energy grid supervision, and health‑care data transfer, ensuring that essential services stay operational during large‑scale disasters or cyber attacks.

Because erikoisverkot operate on a separate spectrum and use specialized protocols, they are subject to a stringent regulatory regime. The Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority (FICORA) oversees licensing and technical standards, while the National Security Committee coordinates policy and operational guidelines. Regular tests and audits are carried out to verify the resilience of the networks, and upgrades are planned in alignment with European Union directives on cyber‑resilience and critical infrastructures.