Efficient hierarchical key generation and key diffusion for sensor networks
Mohamed Elemam Shehab, Elisa Bertino, A. Ghafoor · 2005
Abstract — Sensor networks are designed with the assumption that nodes are willing to collaborate. However, the open collaboration of nodes introduces privacy and security issues. Therefore, ensuring privacy in wireless sensor networks is a challenging task. Based on a multilevel security paradigm, in this paper we present a hierarchical key generation and distribution protocol for wireless sensor networks. We show by simulation results that our key generation scheme outperforms the existing hierarchical key generation schemes thus it is suitable for sensor networks with limited computation and energy capabilities. Furthermore, we present an energy efficient key diffusion protocol. We also discuss the possible security threats involved with the proposed protocol and provide suitable solutions to such threats. I.