Friend-assisted intrusion detection and response mechanisms for mobile ad hoc networks

Nowadays, a commonly used wireless network (i.e., Wi-Fi) operates with the aid of a fixed infrastructure (i.e., an access point) to facilitate communication between nodes. The need for such a fixed supporting infrastructure limits the adaptability and usability of the wireless network, especially in situations where the deployment of such an infrastructure is impractical. Recent advancements in computer network introduced a new wireless network, known as a mobile ad hoc network (MANET), to overcome the limitations. Often referred as a peer to peer network, the network does not have any fixed topology, and through its multi hop routing facility, each node can function as a router, thus communication between nodes becomes available without the need of a supporting fixed router or an access point. However, these useful facilities come with big challenges, particularly with respect to providing security. A comprehensive analysis of attacks and existing security measures suggested that MANET are not immune to a colluding blackmail because such a network comprises autonomous and anonymous nodes. This paper addresses MANET security issues by proposing a novel intrusion detection system based upon a friendship concept, which could be used to complement existing prevention mechanisms that have been proposed to secure MANETs. Results obtained from the experiments proved that the proposed concepts are capable of minimising the problem currently faced in MANET intrusion detection system (IDS). Through a friendship mechanism, the problems of false accusations and false alarms caused by blackmail attackers in intrusion detection and response mechanisms can be eliminated.