Bootstrapping Security in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks Using Identity-Based Schemes with Key Revocation

Abstract

In this work, we introduce two full functional identity-based authentication and key exchange (IDAKE) schemes for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). Therefore, we utilize some special features of identity-based cryptographic (IBC) schemes, such as pre-shared secret keys from pairings and efficient key management, to design MANET-IDAKE schemes that meet the special constraints and requirements of MANETs. As part of these schemes, we present the first key revocation and key renewing algorithms for IBC schemes. The former algorithm uses a new concept of neighborhood watch. We introduce a basic MANET-IDAKE scheme in which a trusted third party (TTP) initializes all devices before they join the network and a fully self-organized MANET-IDAKE scheme that does not require any central TTP. The schemes bootstrap the security in MANETs and enable the use of authentication, key exchange, and other security protocols in a variety of applications. Furthermore, we present an extremely efficient yet secure IDAKE protocol that can be used in the presented schemes. Finally, we provide a security and performance discussion of the presented MANET-IDAKE schemes and IDAKE protocol.