Intrusion detection in mobile ad hoc networks: techniques, systems, and future challenges

Abstract

In recent years, Mobile Ad hoc NETworks (MANETs) have generated great interest among researchers in the development of theoretical and practical concepts, and their implementation under several computing environments. However, MANETs are highly susceptible to various security attacks due to their inherent characteristics. In order to provide adequate security against multi-level attacks, the researchers are of the opinion that detection-based schemes should be incorporated in addition to traditionally used prevention techniques because prevention-based techniques cannot prevent the attacks from compromised internal nodes. Intrusion detection system is an effective defense mechanism that detects and prevents the security attacks at various levels. This paper tries to provide a structured and comprehensive survey of most prominent intrusion detection techniques of recent past and present for MANETs in accordance with technology layout and detection algorithms. These detection techniques are broadly classified into nine categories based on their primary detection engine/(s). Further, an attempt has been made to compare different intrusion detection techniques with their operational strengths and limitations. Finally, the paper concludes with a number of future research directions in the design and implementation of intrusion detection systems for MANETs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.