Enhancing Security in Low-power Wide-area (LPWA) IoT Environments: The Role of HSM, Tamper-proof Technology, and Quantum Cryptography

Abstract

Low-power wide-area (LPWA) networks are integral to expanding Internet of Things (IoT) applications, offering extensive coverage with low power consumption. However, these networks face significant security challenges due to their widespread deployment and inherent constraints. In order to provide secure services in an LPWA IoT environment, important information stored in IoT devices (encryption keys, device unique numbers, etc.) must be safely protected from external hacking or theft by physical access, and it is necessary to develop tamper-proof technology to enhance physical security. Meanwhile, with so many ruggedized IoT devices processing and transmitting sensitive information, security systems are essential to protect the integrity and privacy of IoT data. This paper explores the critical role of hardware security modules (HSMs), tamper-proof technology, and quantum cryptography in enhancing the physical, network, and data security of LPWA IoT environments. We propose operational strategies for HSMs, tamper-proof technology in ruggedized LPWA IoT settings, and a quantum key distribution (QKD)-based IPsec solution for robust network and data security.