Implementation of secure 6LoWPAN communications for tactical wireless sensor networks

Abstract

Tactical wireless sensor networks (WSN) consist of power constrained devices spread throughout a region of interest to provide data extraction in real time. The main challenges to the deployment of tactical WSNs for mission-centric operations are limited nodal energy and information security. In this paper we develop security mechanisms to be implemented on a tactical WSN using the 6LoWPAN protocol for use by the United States Marine Corps (USMC). Specifically, we develop an architectural framework for tactical WSNs by studying security gaps and vulnerabilities within the 6LoWPAN security sublayer which is based on IEEE 802.15.4. We develop a key management scheme that is non-broadcast but that is also feasible in an operational scenario. In addition, we modify the 6LoWPAN packet structure to facilitate the newly developed keying mechanism. The tactical WSN architecture is designed to defend against a variety of network attacks that can potentially occur. Simulations will be conducted via MATLAB to show the effectiveness of the developed keying and communication mechanisms.