A batch rekeying time decision algorithm for IPTV systems

This paper proposes an algorithm to decide on the batch rekeying time for group key management schemes for Internet protocol television (IPTV) systems. Batch rekeying schemes can reduce the effect of membership changes in group key management schemes by collecting and processing several join and leave events at once. Because membership of IPTV systems frequently changes due to the frequent changes of TV channels viewed by subscribers, batch rekeying schemes are suitable to IPTV systems. Our algorithm considers one more factor; programs broadcasted on IPTV channels can have various values. By computing the expected loss from the value of programs, and the number and time of join and leave events, our algorithm decides on the next rekeying time where the expected loss becomes larger than the predefined loss value given by the service provider.