Architecture to manage Internet of Things Data using Blockchain and Fog Computing

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a novel architecture that utilizes features of Blockchain, fog computing, and cloud computing to manage IoT data. Blockchain allows to have a distributed peer-to-peer network in which non-trusting participants can interact with each other without a trusted intermediary or third party. We evaluate how this mechanism works to face the challenges of IoT with respect to multiple accessibility to IoT devises. We consider a Blockchain architecture in presence of edge computing layer. With fog or fog computing, the sensitive data can be analyzed locally instead of sending it to the cloud for analysis. Edge nodes can also keep track and control of the IoT devices that collect, analyze and store data. We show that this control can be better executed when Software Defined Network (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) are integrated into our process for optimal resource management. In this paper, we present our system architecture with a detailed description of the different interactions. We remark that the integration of Blockchain, IoT, and edge computing when coupled with SDN and NFV-enabled cloud infrastructure can bring to more superior and efficient platform for accessing, managing, and processing the huge influx of IoT data.