Blockchain-based security services for fog computing

Abstract

Fog computing is a paradigm for distributed computing that enables sharing of resources such as computing, storage and network services. Unlike cloud computing, fog computing platforms primarily support non-functional properties such as location awareness, mobility and reduced latency. This emerging paradigm has many potential applications in domains such as smart grids, smart cities, and transport management. Most of these domains collect and monitor personal information through edge devices to offer personalized services. A centralized server either at the level of cloud or fog, has been found ineffective to provide a high degree of security and privacy-preserving services. Blockchain technology supports the development of decentralized applications designed around the principles of immutability, cryptography, consistency preserving consensus protocols and smart contracts. Hence blockchain technology has emerged as a preferred technology in recent times to build trustworthy distributed applications. The chapter describes the potential of blockchain technology to realize security services such as authentication, secured communication, availability, privacy and trust management to support the development of dependable fog services.