NIST publishes new protocol for wireless biometric acquisition
04 May, 2012
category: Biometrics
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed and published a new protocol for devices to capture biometric data wirelessly and securely using Web services.
The new WS-Biometric Devices (WS-BD) protocol enables desktops, laptops, tablets and smart phones to access biometric data capturing sensors using Web services. This can be used for biometric data such as fingerprints, iris images and face images.
With the WS-BD protocol, set up and maintenance of secure biometric systems for identity verification will be simpler because the protocol provides for interoperable components for biometric systems using a device-independent web-services layer in the communication protocol between biometric devices and systems.
Agencies and organizations that utilize biometric systems may benefit from implementing WS-BD protocol-enabled equipment because replacement costs in conjunction with replacement parts may be simpler and cheaper to swap in, rather than having to repair or replace system components that may be obsolete.
Researchers recently demonstrated the new protocol in their lab with a tablet device that communicated wirelessly with two biometric fingerprint sensors.
The NIST developed this solution with support from the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate, the FBI’s Biometric Center of Excellence and NIST’s Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative. NIST is working to bring these plug-and-play biometric devices to market through industry input from the Small Business Innovation Research Program.