Device Provisioning Protocol (DPP)

The Device Provisioning Protocol (DPP) is a modern, secure method designed to simplify the process of connecting devices to Wi-Fi networks, especially focusing on Internet of Things (IoT) devices that often have limited or no user interfaces. DPP addresses the challenges associated with securely onboarding IoT devices onto Wi-Fi networks by eliminating the need for manual entry of Wi-Fi passwords or the use of insecure setup methods. This protocol enhances the security and simplicity of connecting devices to Wi-Fi, ensuring a smoother, more secure user experience.

DPP utilizes advanced cryptographic techniques, including elliptic curve cryptography for key establishment and the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) for symmetric encryption, ensuring a high degree of security during the device provisioning process. One of the key features of DPP is the ability to provision devices with network credentials without the actual exchange of these credentials over the air, thereby minimizing the risk of interception by unauthorized parties.

The protocol operates using a pair of roles, the Enrollee (the device to be onboarded) and the Configurator (the device or service that has network access and can onboard other devices). The Configurator is responsible for authenticating the Enrollee and provisioning it with the necessary network credentials. This process can be initiated in various user-friendly ways, such as scanning a QR code, tapping an NFC tag, or through a cloud-based approach, providing flexibility in deployment across different scenarios and environments.

DPP introduces a novel concept of a credential termed a 'Connector', which is simpler to deploy than traditional X.509 certificates but offers device-specific identification and security benefits over pre-shared keys (PSKs). Connectors bind network access credentials to a physical device, enabling unique identification on the network and allowing for the application of device-specific access controls and policies.

Ideal for both small home networks and large enterprise environments, DPP supports a range of deployment models, from simple AP/router setups to more complex configurations involving centralized controllers and multiple access points. Through DPP, devices can be onboarded seamlessly with minimal user intervention, promoting a zero-touch experience in some scenarios. This protocol represents a significant step forward in the secure, scalable, and user-friendly onboarding of IoT devices to Wi-Fi networks.