Massive MIMO for Securing Internet of Things Networks

Security and privacy are cornerstones for Internet of Things (IoT) to become a platform for the networked society. Basically, all of the security today relies on cryptographic techniques, which exhibit many drawbacks, and there are many challenges in applying theses approaches in IoT. Physical layer security (PhySec) is a promising solution that aims to exploit the randomness of the wireless channel to provide secure transmissions. The aim of the MAMONET project is to develop efficient and practical PhySec techniques that benefit from the surplus degrees of freedom and opportunities offered by massive MIMO (M-MIMO), as a key technology for next generation networks, to guarantee secure and trusted communication links over IoT networks. The project will follow an interdisciplinary approach that bridges the gap between theoretical concepts and the industrial practices. Three novel research approaches will be considered: (i) a power-based approach, (ii) a location-based approach and (iii) a bandwidth-based approach. This research action will draw on my experience in PhySec and M-MIMO, supported by the supervisor and state-of-the-art equipment at the host institution. Additionally, the proposed activities will be complemented by training and collaboration with industry through a secondment. This creates a unique opportunity for me to consolidate my research and entrepreneurial skills. The impact of the proposed activities is in accordance with European initiatives, creating opportunities for the secure networked society and efficiency of European stakeholders. The outcomes will be aligned with the H2020 call for Digital Security for trustworthy ICT. The communication, dissemination and exploitation plans will build upon established contacts and actions by engaging the relevant stakeholders using different messages and media.