Quality of Service-aware Security Framework for Mobile Ad hoc Networks using Optimized Link State Routing Protocol

Abstract

All networks must provide an acceptable and desirable level of Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure that applications are well supported. This becomes a challenge when it comes to Mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs). This paper presents a security framework that is QoS-aware in MANETs using a network protocol called Optimized Link State Routing Protocol (OLSR). Security & QoS targets may not necessarily be similar but this framework seeks to bridge the gap for the provision of an optimal functioning MANET. This paper presents the various security challenges, attacks, and goals in MANETs and the existing architectures or mechanisms used to combat security attacks. Additionally, this framework includes a security keying system to ascertain QoS. The keying system is linked to the basic configuration of the protocol OLSR through its Multi-point Relays (MPRs) functionality. The proposed framework is one that optimizes the use of network resources and time.