NIST Issues Call for "Lightweight Cryptography" Algorithms
This is interesting:
Creating these defenses is the goal of NIST’s lightweight cryptography initiative, which aims to develop cryptographic algorithm standards that can work within the confines of a simple electronic device. Many of the sensors, actuators and other micromachines that will function as eyes, ears and hands in IoT networks will work on scant electrical power and use circuitry far more limited than the chips found in even the simplest cell phone. Similar small electronics exist in the keyless entry fobs to newer-model cars and the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags used to locate boxes in vast warehouses.
All of these gadgets are inexpensive to make and will fit nearly anywhere, but common encryption methods may demand more electronic resources than they possess.
The NSA’s SIMON and SPECK would certainly qualify.
Dave • May 2, 2018 7:23 AM
We don’t need lightweight cryptography, we need lightweight protocols. The crypto algorithm is never more than a tiny fraction of the overall amount of code and overhead required in securing a system, it’s the rest of the protocol that’s the problem. I mean, it’s a fun area to play in, but unless they also put out a call for lightweight security protocols to replace the current collection of heavyweight, super-heavyweight, and ultra-heavyweight ones, they may as well not bother.