Authentication mechanisms in Next-generation Internet Layer mobile and distributed environments

Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6), also called the Next Generation Internet Protocol (IPng) is a natural increment to IPv4. IPv4 was never intended for the Internet that we have today, commonly used in mobile and distributed environments, either in terms of customer requirements or security concers. The changes from IPv4 to IPv6 include primarily expanded addressing capabilities, the header format simplification, new quality-of-service capabilities and security capabilities. IPv6 offers to customers new ways of the Internet usage, among which this document will focus on its usage in IPv6 mobile and distributed environments as two key aspects. Mobility has changed the way people communicate. Distributed environments represent a huge computer power that can be used in plenty of commercial and scientific activities. Although IPv6 itself provides authentication and privacy capabilities, they are far from being enough to protect the communication in IPv6 mobile and distributed enviroments. This document analysis weak aspects of current security mechansisms in the IPv6 mobile and distributed surrounding, and suggests a self-evident, decentralized authentication approach as a solution.