Securing IoT Using Lightweight Cryptography: A Review

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed the way we live and work by connecting billions of devices to the internet, creating a highly interconnected and data-driven ecosystem. However, the rapid proliferation of IoT devices has introduced significant security challenges, as many of these devices operate with resource-constrained hardware, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. This paper explores the critical need for robust security measures in the IoT landscape and presents a solution in the form of Lightweight Cryptography (LWC).Traditional cryptographic techniques are often too computationally intensive and memory-consuming for IoT devices with limited processing power and memory. Lightweight Cryptography offers a tailored approach to address these constraints while ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of data exchanged between IoT devices and systems. In this paper, we delve into the fundamental principles of Lightweight Cryptography and its suitability for IoT security. We examine various lightweight cryptographic algorithms, and discuss their advantages in terms of efficiency and security. We also highlight the importance of key management and secure communication protocols in IoT security. Furthermore, we explore practical use cases where Lightweight Cryptography can be implemented to enhance the security of IoT applications, including smart homes, industrial automation, healthcare, and transportation systems. By adopting lightweight cryptographic techniques, IoT ecosystems can mitigate security threats, protect sensitive data, and ensure the long-term sustainability and reliability of IoT deployments. In an era where IoT continues to reshape our world, securing this interconnected landscape is imperative, and Lightweight Cryptography emerges as a promising solution to safeguard the future of IoT.