Non-cryptographic authentication and identification in wireless networks [Security and Privacy in Emerging Wireless Networks]

Lower/physical layer characteristics have been considered as potential alternatives/complements to provide security services in wireless networks. This article provides an overview of various noncryptographic mechanisms for user authentication and device identification in wireless networks using lower/physical layer properties or information. We discuss merits and demerits of these authentication/identification schemes and the practical implementation issues. Future research on cross-layer security design concludes this article.

Introduction

Advances in communication and networking technologies are rapidly making ubiquitous network connectivity a reality. Wireless networks are indispensable for supporting such access anywhere and anytime. Due to its open air nature, the wireless environment imposes greater challenges on ensuring network security than in wired networks. Because of the broadcast nature of the wireless medium, communication can easily be eavesdropped or intercepted. The wireless devices can be compromised and modified to behave maliciously or selfishly. These vulnerabilities in wireless networks could undermine the authenticity, confidentiality, integrity, and availability if they are not carefully addressed. On the flip side, the inherent and unique characteristics of the wireless medium or devices can be exploited to enhance network security [1]–[3].