TPM-based remote attestation for Wireless Sensor Networks

Abstract

It is essential to design a protocol to allow sensor nodes to attest to their trustworthiness for mission-critical applications based on Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). However, it is a challenge to evaluate the trustworthiness without appropriate hardware support. Hence, we present a hardware-based remote attestation protocol to tackle the problem within WSNs. In our design, each sensor node is equipped with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) which plays the role of a trusted anchor. We start with the formulation of remote attestation and its security. The complete protocol for both single-hop and multi-hop attestations is then demonstrated. Results show the new protocol is effective, efficient, and secure.