Blockchain-Based Authentication in IoT Networks

Abstract

IoT networks are designed to connect as many devices as possible. Since any device can be connected to an IoT network, it faces an authentication issue, which may be exploited by attackers to break into the IoT network. A solution discussed in this paper is to make use of blockchain technology to authenticate IoT devices before it joins an IoT network. Based on the characteristics of blockchain, it can be used to create the digital identification of IoT devices and authenticate them. Authenticated Devices Configuration Protocol (ADCP) is proposed to achieve this authentication process. All results of the solution have been demonstrated by a fully working implementation, and do not solely rely on theoretical considerations or simulations.