The Challenges Facing Physical Layer Security
Physical layer security has become an emerging hot-topic in wireless systems. At the heart of this enthusiasmis the belief that the physical layer represents a previously-untapped resource for enhancing wireless security. In particular, rather than rely solely upon generic, higher-layer cryptographic mechanisms, as has been the norm, there is a belief that it is possible to design lower-layer services that support security objectives, such as authentication and confidentiality. With all of the excitement surrounding physical layer security, I believe it is important to revisit the intent behind this research area and whether we, as a community, are on track to developing tools that will engender the trust needed for their adoption.