An identity-based broadcast encryption scheme for mobile ad hoc networks

Abstract

Dynamic ad hoc networks facilitate interconnections between mobile devices without the support of any network infrastructure. In this paper, we propose a secure identity-based ad hoc protocol for mobile devices to construct a group key for a setup of a secure communication network in an efficient way and support dynamic changing of network topology. Unlike group key management protocols proposed previously in the literature, mobile devices can use our protocol to construct the group key by observing the others’ identity, like the MAC address, which distinguishes the device from the others. In contrast to other interactive protocols, we only need one broadcast to setup the group key and member removal is also highly efficient. Finally, we discuss the security issues and provide security proofs for our protocol.