Comprehensive analysis of Li-Fi technology: positioning algorithms, security vulnerabilities, and future IoT applications

Abstract Light fidelity (Li-Fi) is an ovonic, high-speed, wireless network communication technology. It can supplement radio frequency (RF) communications that carry much more information to solve the problem of RF bandwidth limitations. The widespread introduction of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) helps create an indoor positioning system, which is flexible at all places. However, the problems of visible light communication (VLC) positioning hinder the development of Li-Fi. Hence, there is a dire need for an extensive survey to explore Li-Fi and security vulnerabilities. In our survey paper, we present Li-Fi research methodology and discuss problems with the background and design specifications of Li-Fi. We map existing problems of VLC positioning with current positioning technologies that are characterized based on Quality-of-Service (QoS) parameters such as speed, energy reduction, time complexity, transportability, accuracy, transmission distance, etc. This new characterization of positioning technologies based on QoS parameters can contribute to the Li-Fi domain. The advantages and disadvantages are thoroughly analyzed using a systematic literature review. Furthermore, we extensively explore the security vulnerabilities of Li-Fi on network and transport layers classify them into three main categories; and discuss Li-Fi heterogeneity support to ensure a constant and reliable connection. The strengths and limitations of Li-Fi are evaluated. Current and future Li-Fi IoT-enabled applications are reviewed. Positioning algorithms 9range-free, range-based, and hybrid) Li-Fi-supported algorithms are tested to determine their effectiveness from accuracy, time complexity, speed, energy reduction, transmission distance, and transportability standpoint. The Loophole-prevention and Li-Fi positioning improvements are suggested.