Key predistribution scheme using keyed-hash chain and multipath key reinforcement for wireless sensor networks

Abstract

In this paper, we present an efficient, effective, and secure mechanism for key-distribution in homogeneous wireless sensor network (WSNs). The scheme is based on multipath key reinforcement. We introduce the concept of a keyed-hash-chain to use a different key in each session between a pair of sensors, without allocating a large amount of memory space to store the keys. First, each sensor node is preloaded with a number of generation keys. Using these generation keys and a publicly known seed value in a pre-defined hash function, distinct key-chains are generated. Multipath Key reinforcement is used to update the number of iterations to achieve a higher level of security.