  Recent advancements in the field of smart machine-to-machine (M2M)
communications impose the necessity to improve the service delivery by
enforcing appropriate security rules. Due to the large number of connected
devices, the criticality of the M2M applications, and the network stability
weaknesses, we need to consider and analyse the security aspects and establish
a flexible policy-aware architecture. This paper explores the relevant
architectural challenges in this environment and proposes a Policy-Aware smart
M2M Architecture (PAArc) based on ETSI M2M communications functional
architecture. We explore the policy-based management aspects to improve the
security of the M2M components and services and to mitigate the security
concerns that arise by evaluating an Intelligent Transportation System use
case. It is shown that the policy enforcement enables enhanced security
management capabilities, increased agility, and better service levels in the
field of smart M2M communications.
