Dependability aspects of ubiquitous computing

With more than 2 billions terminals in commercial operation world-wide, wireless and mobile technologies have enabled a first wave of pervasive communication systems and applications. Still, this is only the beginning, as wireless technologies such as RFID are currently contemplated with a deployment potential of ten's of billions of tags and a vinually unlimited application potential. Although significant R&D work has been undertaken over recent years on these systems, most of the research is still very application specific, with security and environmental applications dominating and demonstration driven. However, it is likely that more generic and comprehensive approach is required, where different stakeholders and research specialists work together to solve true systems level problems.