Generation, Regeneration and Validation of Binary Secret Keys through Blockchain in IoT Devices

This article operationalizes a mathematical root of trust that can be scaled into protection for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The initial discussion focuses on gated arrays and the generation of 4-way binary keys. Randomization is used in generation of input and sequence keys giving a unique secret key. The probability of successful attack depends on the number of devices and ordinary implementations are well into one in a billion or more. The paper uses the “epoch” concept; a time-dimensioned interval where more blocks are added to the blockchain. The epochs are selected at random and voting, duration, frequency and key roles are also randomized increasing resiliency. The model does not require constant update of IoT storage; only until such time as communication with others is initiated or a request is received. The substantial savings in processing requirements are significant in IoT. A detailed discussion of the management of the blockchain is provided as well as the necessary blocks enabling the approach. The paper includes a sample dialogue using standard TCP/IP communication structures with security protocols and closing remarks aim at extrapolation to cloud and quantum computing. Keywords: blockchain, key management and distribution, internet of things, root of trust, cyber-resiliency