V. Mak et al. (Eds): CEEMAS 2003, LNAI 269, pp. 454-463, 2003.

Abstract

Both, research and application development in the area of multi-agent systems currently undertakes rapid expansion. In order to use multi-agent technology in real applications, it is inevitable to ensure security, integrity and authenticity of inter-agent communication. Various securitysystems, developed for different applications have been used in multi-agent system (MAS). Alternatively, MAS are designed with respect to the specific communication security requirements. This paper describes the architecture and implementation of the security (XSecurity) system, which implemets authentication and secure communication among agents. System uses certification authority (CA) and ensures full cooperation of secured agents and already existing (unsecured) agents. Principle of the system integration into already existing MAS is described here as well as possibility of its usage for mobile agents. Paper deals as well with security mechanisms activity during inaccessibility of CA and possibility of CAs recreation. Security system was designed according the FIPA standards