APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NEGOTIATING PAIRWISE MASTER KEY FOR SECURING PEER LINKS IN WIRELESS MESH NETWORKS

摘要

A system and method for negotiating a pairwise master key (PMK) in wireless mesh networks. The system includes a plurality of mesh points that are configured to perform an abbreviated handshake protocol in negotiating a PMK and establishing a secure connection. The method for establishing a negotiated PMK is based on selecting a PMK before transmitting any data, and arranging available PMKs in a predetermined list so that a PMK can be negotiated in a limited number of exchanges.