Abstract: A computer-implemented system for implementing maintenance and distribution of revocation information within an ad-hoc network. The system includes at least one network node. The network node includes a computer implemented application configured to maintain revocation information in computer memory and distribute the revocation information to other network nodes using a two stage distribution method. The distribution method includes a first stage wherein the revocation message is transmitted to all certifier nodes within the ad-hoc network, and a second stage wherein each certifier node distributes the revocation message to at least one non-certifier node associated with the certifier node.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for generating a hierarchical set of certifiers nodes for a public key infrastructure within an ad-hoc network. The method includes determining at least one potential certifier node that is eligible to become certifier nodes from a set of nodes in an ad-hoc network, creating a new certifier node from the at least one potential certifier node based on a selection criteria, and creating a parent-child relationship with the new certifier node.