Industrial-Strength Security for ZigBee: The Case for Public-Key Cryptography

While the popular image of wireless networking usually features cell phones, PDAs, and laptop computers, there are all manner of other devices for which wireless networking presents great advantages. These devices are programmed to perform specific tasks or provide specific information accurately and reliably.

They range from managing automated lighting and heating systems in large buildings, to controlling and monitoring business-critical manufacturing processes. These industrial and commercial environments have demanding requirements in terms of network architecture, power consumption, operating cost, and perhaps most importantly, security. In this article, Mitch makes the case for public-key cryptography for ZigBee wireless networks.