Efficient IOT Firmware Management System with Hybrid Encryption and Cross-Interface Compatibility

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) has rapidly evolved, transforming how devices communicate, collect data, and automate processes. Since its introduction in 1999, IoT has benefited from advancements in embedded systems, wireless communication, and networking protocols. However, early IoT infrastructures faced significant limitations, including low computational capacity, weak security mechanisms, and heavy reliance on centralized systems for software updates. Traditional update methods, such as centralized servers and Over-The-Air (OTA) systems, introduce vulnerabilities like single points of failure, cyberattack risks, scalability issues, and lack of transparency, ultimately affecting system reliability and trust. To overcome these challenges, this work proposes a decentralized software update management framework that integrates blockchain technology with the Inter-Planetary File System (IPFS). The system leverages Ethereum smart contracts to securely manage user registration, update metadata, and transaction records in a transparent and immutable manner. A hybrid encryption approach combining Elliptic Curve Integrated Encryption Scheme (ECIES) and CiphertextPolicy Attribute-Based Encryption (CP-ABE) is used to ensure secure data transmission, fine-grained access control, and strong confidentiality. Encrypted software updates are stored on IPFS as contentaddressed data, enabling tamper-resistant and distributed storage without dependence on centralized infrastructure. Additionally, a Django-based web interface facilitates user interaction, while a Tkinterbased simulation models real-time IoT update distribution. The proposed framework enhances security, scalability, and transparency, offering a robust and efficient solution for modern IoT software update management.