Low-Cost SHA-1 Hash Function Architecture for RFID Tags

Abstract

Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are expected to play an important role in the future of ubiquitous computing. By extending the deployment of computing devices to every facet of our lives will open up communication infrastructures to new forms of attack. As such, the inclusion of security is vital in the development of next-generation wireless and ubiquitous devices. In this paper, a low-cost SHA-1 hash function architecture is described that can be used to provide data integrity and authentication in RFID tags. When implemented on 130 nm CMOS the design utilises 5527 gates and consumes 2.32 μW of power. To the author’s knowledge, the proposed architecture is the smallest and most power-efficient hash function design reported in the literature to date.