Near Field Communication

Question: Discuss about theNear Field Communication. Answer: Introduction Near Field Communication (NFC) is the next big thing in the domain of digital identification. It is an updated standard for proximity card standards. The defining feature of this technology is short-range identification that has the potential to provide uncompromised security to the users. It has the potential to revolutionize payment methods in various domains and can change the scenario of how business is done. It has great application in the field of communication. To ensure that the technology reaches its potential addressing the security issues needs to be a priority. Proximity Cards are utilized for identification purposes. In near field communication (NFC) the technology of smartcard interface as well as its reader is amalgamated into a new device. NFC is a significant upgrade of the proximity card standards that are already prevalent. The most important functions it can serve are sharing information across digital devices, wireless payments of bills and as e-tickets for public transportation. The NFC technology is unique in itself in comparison to other wireless devises used for such purposes. Moreover, its potential uses are much more farfetched. The ultimate application of both Bluetooth and NFC are almost identical i.e. to transfer data wirelessly. However, NFC can transfer data over small distances, around 10cm or so, whereas Bluetooth is designed to transfer data over much longer distances. NFC technologies are effective in regions were a lot of devices are present for example in crowded areas. The mechanisms that are utilized in RFID and NFC are very similar. Both of the technologies utilize Radiomagnetic Waves as signals for the purpose of identification. NFC can transfer information both ways in contrast to RFID. NFC is a much newer technology that has specific applications where other wireless communications standards are impractical to utilize. NFC is based on the theory of inductive coupling that enables a device to transfer energy from one magnetic circuit to another. Magnetic coils are present which are also known as antenna coils. Between the two antenna coils, one needs to be active and the other passive. The active coil is supplied with an energy source. The passive antenna is activated by radio waves and subsequently information from the tag can be extracted. The NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) is a message format that is utilized to exchange information between two NFC definitions or to store information on a NFC Tag. NDEF message is a binary message format than can be understood and accessed by any other NDEF compatible device. The information or application-defined payloads can be combined into a single message construct and classified on the basis of type, length and optional identifier. Adhering to the basic language format of the NFC data is necessary for universal reading of the same by the devices. A common language ensures organization and comprehendible arrangement of data. The NDEF is aimed to transfer payrolls or data of high-level applications over the NFC radio interface, and at the same time retain the air interface data format of the payrolls. One record is the minimum message length for such formats. The beginning and the end of the messages are marked with MB or Message Begin flag set and ME or Message End flag set respectively. This lets the reading device to identify the starting and ending point of a message and influences the reading outcomes of the message. Index numbers are not included in the NFC NDEF records; instead it is implied by the record order. This ensures effective use of the data capability. Sequence of records comprises a NDEF message through which payrolls are transferred it consists of two distinct parts. The NFC technology poses several security issues that needs to be addressed. Some of the risk factors and possible solutions are addressed which includes some of the security breach procedures of NFC: Compared to other wireless communications, NFC functions within short ranges, which can reduce certain security issues. However, complete NFC security is not yet ensured and the responsible issues must be addressed. Although, it is hard but not impossible to perform a man-inmiddle security attack in the NFC. A use of active-passive communication mode reduced the potential risks manifold. It allows the user to detect any third-party intervention in the interface. NFC technology is basically an evolved form of RFID. It allows identification over very short distance by a series of contactless identification and interconnections that includes sensing radio frequencies. Information can be sensed and exchange when two devices equipped with NFC technology are brought close to each other. Identification and information exchange is much simplified in such procedures. Identification utilizing long-range technologies that require elaborate and tedious set-ups can be avoided. NFC has limited use presently but has immense potential to change the communication scenario in the future. The NFC technology has promising prospects to be utilized in the future and change the way short distance identification is perceived. The technology can revolutionize the communication standards in digital media. Some of its potential applications are discussed The ability of NFC to combine mobile devices with efficient payment wallet (s) can have widespread application in todays digital market. The simple user interface adds to its potential long-term application. The potential applications will encourage consumers to pay for the convenience. NFC can have longstanding applications in various fields including bankcards, transit passes, and movie tickets and even as keys. The freedom of manipulation of the technology through software development ensures broad range of industrial uses. The highlighting factor of NFC is its flexibility and effectiveness that will lure customers and merchants at the same time. NFC technology promises to provide time efficiency in various scenarios like checkouts, ticket booking, and all sorts of payments and eventually can replace existence of physical wallet. It also has the potential to replace credit cards, social security cards, birth certificates, licenses and even passports. Technologies that provide virtual payment methods and personal identification are always prone to security breaches. With adequate amount of knowledge, information and time, any security can be breached. The issues of hacking into the system can disclose personal information of individuals and lead to money laundering. If such issues are efficiently addresses by adequate software and hardware development of the NFC technology, it can offer a lot in the future years in terms of personal identification and payment methods. Once the security issues are addressed, it can revolutionize the way business is done worldwide. It can benefit the merchants, businesspersons as well as financial institutes.