An agent framework for survivable network systems

Abstract

Large network systems elevate the levels of efficiency and effectiveness of organisations by improving systems integration. This improved integration of computer networks and information systems is accompanied by increased risks of intrusion and compromise. Survivability of networks and information systems in face of these risks becomes an important aspect in the effective functioning of an organisation. The unbounded nature of today's networks and the Internet make it impossible to foresee all possible risks and cover the systems against all possible attacks. In this scenario, it becomes necessary that the network be designed to resist possible attacks, recognise attacks and recover from attacks. The open ended nature of this problem requires that flexible architectures be employed to improve survivability. Agent technology is a highly flexible and robust paradigm for building large scale distributed systems. We present an agent based framework for Survivable Network Systems.