Abstract

The IoT (Internet of Things) networks face various types of security issues and threats at the physical layer because of massive connectivity, a large number of interconnections, and resource-constrained devices. In this research article, we have discussed the security issues, challenges, and threats at the physical layer in IoT networks, including eavesdropping, jamming, spoofing, unauthorized access, and pilot contamination. In this research, we have also highlighted various techniques and approaches to overcome the threats and issues at the physical layer of IoT networks and ensure secure connectivity, authenticity, authorization, and confidentiality. The noise aggregation and anti-eavesdropping techniques provide initial defense against unauthorized access and eavesdroppers. Radio Frequency Fingerprinting (RFF), Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) systems, Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) technique, Secret Key Generation (SKG), and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) improve channel randomness, ensure secure connectivity, and optimize resource allocation. Cooperative techniques (jamming and beam- forming) enhance physical layer security through spatial diversity against various attacks and threats. Deep Learning-based Intrusion Detection Systems (DL-based IDS) detect and mitigate security threats, while Quantum Computing and Federated Learning solve cryptographic and privacy issues in distributed IoT networks. This research presents a comprehensive review, comparison, and analysis of physical layer security techniques for IoT networks.

Authors

Muhammad Hamza Rauf, Muhammad Usman
Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland

Keywords

IoT Networks, Physical Layer Security, Eavesdropping, Jamming, Wireless Channel