Blockchain Security Solution for a Dynamic Edge Computing Platform for Enhanced IIoT Application Performance

Abstract

In the context of the Internet of Things (IoT), the combined use of edge computing and blockchain technology is rapidly expanding. This approach improves performance, energy efficiency, storage management, and most importantly, security and privacy within IoT environments. IoT devices are also economically valuable across a range of industries, such as healthcare and manufacturing. However, because of their limited resources, energy constraints, and heightened vulnerability to intrusions, IoT devices and especially mobile IoT devices that move between networks face significant security challenges. Traditional security methods often become ineffective as the volume of data generated by mobile IoT devices continues to grow, which means that users become increasingly exposed to risks. To address these challenges, we propose a new method that integrates blockchain, edge computing, and mobile IoT devices. This method is known as the Secure Edge Mobility Protocol (SEMP) and is designed specifically for mobile IoT devices operating within edge computing environments. In the SEMP framework, IoT devices are able to roam smoothly and securely between networks through the dynamic generation of secure cryptographic keys created using blockchain technology and based on a modified PoAh protocol. This key generation mechanism strengthens device security while also improving system performance and energy consumption. The proposed SEMP architecture uses a decentralised structure, strong consensus mechanisms, and advanced encryption techniques that are suitable for resource-constrained mobile IoT devices. SEMP maintains high standards of privacy and performance for industrial IoT applications. It is implemented and rigorously tested under a wide range of realistic conditions. The results show significant improvements in security, robustness, scalability, and energy efficiency.