Ultrasonic device localization and its potential for wireless sensor network security

A main aspect in wireless sensor networks with numerous sensor nodes is location awareness. While major scientific activities are concentrated to ultra-wideband solutions, some systems specially designed for indoor application try to rely on ultrasonic (US) localization. This paper presents concept and test setup of a new “Indoor-GPS” system and discusses advantages and disadvantages. Because location information is a crucial parameter which may be manipulated for attacking the sensor network, an encryption scheme is presented and aspects of sensor node compromise are pointed out. Advantages of US localization for sensor authentication are displayed which are especially provided using permanently installed localization equipment with periodic activity.