Internet of Things Device Capability Profiling Using Blockchain

Abstract

Currently, Internet of Things (IoT) devices can integrate into an existing network where they may interact with a myriad of other devices that may host a range of capabilities. Such IoT devices may need to share data that is consumed by other devices or services. This data is generated by the capabilities built into devices within the ecosystem. A typical IoT ecosystem that is heterogeneous in nature should be able to have devices that offer a range of capabilities that could be explored in the event a device breakdown or malfunction. This is to ensure that the system is self-sustaining, and adequately perform during undesirable conditions. Hence, an IoT ecosystem should be able to collaborate, self-organize itself to explore these capabilities towards achieving an overall goal. As such, interoperability of these devices which will improve functionality, availability, and robustness of the IoT ecosystem must be achieved. Also, Several IoT representations today store their data centrally which gives rise to inherent issues such as single point of failure, and other possible vulnerabilities. Addressing these deficiencies alongside proper profiling of IoT device capability and other device details is viewed as the first stage in securing IoT ecosystems and this was explored in this research. This study presents the use of Distributed Ledger Technology which has the inherent property of being secure to profile the capability of IoT devices within self-organized IoT ecosystems. A system overview, data structures, and algorithms are presented.