An efficient authentication protocol based on congruence for Wireless Sensor networks

Authentication in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) is a challenging process. Providing authentication for the Nodes in WSN is a vital issue in Secure Group communication among WSNs. Massive group of tiny sensor Nodes form WSNs and these are placed in open, unattended milieu. Due to this reason, Nodes in WSN can endure exclusive encounters. WSNs are more vulnerable to active and passive attacks than wired ones due to their broadcasting nature, limitations in resources and unrestrained environments. However, security will be a significant factor for their complete implementation. In this paper, a new protocol based on congruence equations and number theory concepts have been introduced to achieve secure authentication among Nodes in WSNs. The proposed protocol uses Fermat Number Theorem (FNT) and Combinations of Chinese Remainder Theorem with Fermat Numbers (CRT_FN) to enhance the strength of authentication mechanism among the sensor Nodes. In between Node to Node authentication FNT is used, Cluster head to Node and Base station to Cluster head CRT_FN is used. Comparison of the proposed protocol with existing protocols is done. It reflects that it provides instant authentication, minimum memory utilization and withstands DoS attack, cloning attack, replay attack, eavesdropping and Man - in - the middle attack.