Heightening Security of P2P Networks by Neighborhood Key Method

Abstract

Most of the current trust models in peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are identity based, which means that in order for one peer to trust another, it needs to know the other peer's identity. In addition, the conventional access control mechanism is not suitable because the P2P networks is decentralize and dynamic one. We propose a neighborhood key method, authentication scheme base on zero-knowledge proof without leaking any sensitive information, each peer shares secrets only with authenticated neighbors, which generate verifiable pseudonym instead of their real identity from using a one-way Hash function. Security analysis proves that this method makes authentication can't be impersonated, while achieving better anonymity for peers, malicious peers cannot deduce a real identity. And also shows well defending man-in-middle attacks.