Security context transfer in vertical handover

Abstract

This paper presents solutions for security context transfer for vertical handover between heterogeneous networks. Seamless vertical handover is an important function of Beyond 3G systems. Context transfer can help support seamless vertical handover while maintaining required security level. So as to come to solutions for security context transfer, this paper first analyses trust relationship between different participants of vertical handover and gives a definition of security context. Context transfer schemes for no coupling, loose coupling and tight coupling of networks are then presented.