Security Threats and Solutions in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks; A Review

Mutuma Ichaba

doi:10.13189/ujcn.2018.060201

Abstract

Compared to wired-infrastructure dependent networks, Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) are more vulnerable to attacks. Because of their dynamic topology and the absence of centralized network administration, MANETs face more security threats than centralized networks. Initial literature review on MANETs' security issues indicates that while there have been attempts to identify security threats and solutions on MANETs, comprehensive reviews are very little or lacking. In an attempt to address this gap, this article offers an up-to-date literature on security issues and solutions in MANETs. By limiting the review to 21 st Century research on this topic, this review paper is able to offer a comprehensive presentation of the issues concerning security in MANETs.

Highlights

In present-day society mobile devices (e.g laptops and cellphones) are increasingly being integrated to daily activities
Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) are made up of self-configuring mobile nodes linked through wireless connections [1]
Mobile ad hoc networks use their nodes as both routers/transmitters and receivers

Summary

Introduction

In present-day society mobile devices (e.g laptops and cellphones) are increasingly being integrated to daily activities. In [7], such traits listed include “lack of central control, limited resources, mobility, dynamic topologies, wireless connectivity, and/or custom routing protocols”. Each of these characteristics bring in unique security issues. Wireless networks in general and mobile ad hoc networks in particular, are prone to external threats such as signal interference and jamming. Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) are made up of self-configuring mobile nodes linked through wireless connections [1]. Mobile ad hoc networks use their nodes as both routers/transmitters and receivers Because of this dual-purpose status of nodes, every mobile device in a network is very critical to the security of data transmission [14].

Literature Review Methodology

Related Research

Types of Security Threats in MANETs

Solutions to MANETs’ Security Threats

Aspects of Security in MANETs

Conclusions and Further Research