RIS-Assisted Physical Layer Security: Artificial Noise-Driven Optimization and Measurements

Abstract: Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) has emerged as a key enabler for providing signal coverage, energy efficiency, reliable communication, and physical layer security (PLS) in next-generation wireless communication networks. This paper investigates an artificial noise (AN)-driven RIS-assisted secure communication system. The RIS is partitioned into two segments, where the first segment is configured to direct the communication signal (CS) toward the legitimate user (Bob), and the other one is configured to steer the AN toward the eavesdropper (Eve). To this end, iterative and discrete Fourier transform-based algorithms are developed for practical RIS phase shift optimization. The power allocation between the CS and the AN signals is optimized in such a way that the secrecy capacity (SC) is maximized while limiting Eve's channel capacity. The proposed PLS framework is evaluated through both simulations and software defined radio based testbed experiments. The results demonstrate promising improvements in the SC, highlighting the potential of AN-driven RIS-assisted PLS for practical deployments.