

This MIC is similar to a checksum, except that it prevents intentional tampering with a message. This key is used to validate the integrity of each message by its Message Integrity Code (MIC check). The Network Session Key ( NwkSKey) is used for interaction between the Node and the Network Server. These session keys will be used for the duration of the session. The NwkSKey is shared with the network, while the AppSKey is kept private. When a device joins the network (this is called a join or activation), an application session key AppSKey and a network session key NwkSKey are generated. The algorithm used for this is AES-128, similar to the algorithm used in the 802.15.4 standard. LoRaWAN 1.0 specifies a number of security keys: NwkSKey, AppSKey and AppKey.
