Security enhancements in AODV protocol for wireless ad hoc networks

Abstract

Ad hoc networks are a new generation of networks offering unrestricted mobility without any underlying infrastructure. Primary applications of ad hoc networks are in military, tactical and other security-sensitive operations, where the environment is hostile. Hence, security is a critical issue. Due to the nature of ad hoc networks, conventional security measures cannot be used. New security techniques are essential for a high-survivability network. The performance of the protocol may be severely affected in the presence of compromised nodes that inflict unpredictable and undetectable Byzantine failure. We have identified certain misbehaviors caused by a malicious node to a reactive routing protocol, specifically the ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) protocol. We also discuss the intrusion detection and intrusion prevention model to prevent several identified attacks in the network.