Secure localization for wireless sensor networks using decentralized dynamic key generation

Security frameworks for wireless sensor network localization application can no longer be ignored. Wireless sensor network are being deployed in sensitive environment that require high levels of confidentiality, integrity and authenticity. Employing already existing security algorithms dedicated for wireless networks are infeasible for sensor network environment due to limited resources. In this context, a security framework tailored for wireless sensor network localization applications is proposed. The algorithm uses symmetric key encryption where the keys are generated in a decentralized fashion. These keys are computed on the fly, never transmitted and, changes autonomously with each transmission. Furthermore, the algorithm utilizes the bitwise XOR function for all its encryption needs which presents low overhead. Simulations show the robustness of the proposed algorithm in case of malicious node attack on the localization process and on key deduction and computation.