Ultra-lightweight Authentication

Abstract

In this chapter we provide a critical look at the state of the art in ultra-lightweight authentication protocols. We start by outlining the features of the current ubiquitous and pervasive computing environment that have motivated the development of the ultra-lightweight paradigm which uses only basic arithmetic and logical operations. We emphasize its goals and its main challenges. Then, we focus our attention on the authentication problem. We use an abstract framework for modeling the protocols proposed over the years, in order to discuss their design strategies and the security and privacy properties they aim to achieve. After that, we survey the weaknesses and the common pitfalls in both the design and the analysis of ultra-lightweight authentication protocols. Finally, we conclude the chapter by discussing some fundamental ideas and research directions.