Wireless Sensor Network Security for Smart Home IoT Systems

Abstract

In recent years, the so-called Internet of Things (IoT) has emerged as a transformative trend for both commercial and consumer-grade applications. The IoT includes a mesh of wirelessly networked devices with embedded sensors that monitor physical and environmental conditions, and which share the acquired data sets with other systems. Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) have become ubiquitous components in modern IoT networks, employing protocols such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Privacy is fundamental to the WSN, since it transmits sensitive personal information that can be misused in the wrong hands. In this paper, we explore WSN security mechanisms including cryptography and secure routing or data aggregation protocols. To demonstrate best practices, an experimental test bed is constructed, consisting of a 3D printed model building equipped with wireless sensors and controlled by an Arduino and a Raspberry Pi 3 model B. A wireless management application for smart phones, which interfaces with the WSN, is also developed. Security properties are investigated using Kali Linux tools.