Enabling Seamless Handoff for Next Generation Networks : Designing an Advanced Access Control System with Privacy Support

One of the most challenging aspects in Next Generation Networks (NGNs) is the mechanism through which the different technologies will complement each other to achieve a constant access to networks. This research work deals with the problem of defining fast movements without interruptions (seamless handoffs) in NGNs. This objective is achieved through a secure key distribution process, which enables a fast re-authentication process providing both user anonymity and untraceability. The developed access control system offers a set of features not covered so far by a single solution: (1) applicable for EAP-based NGNs; (2) reduction of the authentication latency in mobile environments irrespective of the type of handoff performed by the user; (3) provision of strong security properties; (4) easy deployment in current networks; (5) compatibility with current standardized technologies; and (6) user privacy support.