Blom-based Q-composite: A Generalized Framework of Random Key Pre-distribution Schemes for Wireless Sensor Networks

When setting up a sensor network, one of the first requirements is to establish cryptographic keys to provide encrypted communication links. However, the traditional key establishment techniques cannot be directly applied due to the inherent properties of sensor networks. Recently, several random key pre-distribution schemes based on symmetric cryptography have been proposed to solve the key establishment issue of sensor networks. In this paper, we propose a framework, Blom-based Q-composite (BBQ) scheme, which generalizes various random key pre-distribution schemes. With the aid of BBQ, we systematically analyze, characterize, and discuss the properties of various random key pre-distribution schemes, including connectivity, scalability and security