Lightweight block ciphers for resource-constrained environments: A comprehensive survey

Abstract

With the rapid advancements in information technologies such as 5G and cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT) applications are expanding across various domains, such as smart transportation and smart homes. However, with the proliferation of IoT devices, network attacks on user privacy and security are also increasing. Ensuring data privacy and security has become a critical challenge. However, conventional block ciphers are inapplicable for resource-constrained IoT devices that require low power consumption and real-time response. With advantages such as simpler structures, higher efficiency, and lower overheads, lightweight block ciphers have become an important research avenue for IoT ciphers. This paper summarizes the development of lightweight block ciphers and categorizes the ciphers into six types based on their structures. The software and hardware implementations of lightweight block ciphers are evaluated using multi-dimensional criteria. An in-depth discussion is conducted on security, resource, and performance trade-offs. Additionally, cryptanalysis results, including impossible differentials, integrals, and others, are analyzed. Finally, future perspectives on research directions of lightweight block ciphers are presented.