A context-constrained authorisation (CoCoA) framework for pervasive grid computing

The paper discusses access control implications when bridging Pervasive and Grid computing, and analyses the limitations of current Grid authorisation solutions when applied to Pervasive Grid environments. The key authorisation requirements for Pervasive Grid computing are identified and a novel Grid authorisation framework, the context-constrained authorisation framework CoCoA, is proposed. The CoCoA framework takes into account not only users’ static attributes, but also their dynamic contextual attributes that are inherent in Pervasive computing. It adheres to open Grid standards, uses a modular layered approach to complement existing Grid authorisation systems, and inter-works with other Grid security building blocks. A prototype implementation of the CoCoA framework is presented and its performance evaluated.