Review of Robust Cooperative Spectrum Sensing Techniques for Cognitive Radio Networks

Cognitive radio networks sense spectrum occupancy and manage themselves to operate in unused bands without disturbing licensed users. The detection capability of a radio system can be enhanced if the sensing process is performed jointly by a group of nodes so that the effects of wireless fading and shadowing can be minimized. However, taking a collaborative approach poses new security threats to the system as nodes can report false sensing data to reach a wrong decision. This paper makes a review of secure cooperative spectrum sensing in cognitive radio networks. The main objective of these protocols is to provide an accurate resolution about the availability of some spectrum channels, ensuring the contribution from incapable users as well as malicious ones is discarded. Issues, advantages and disadvantages of such protocols are investigated and summarized.