Security and Privacy Enhancements for Mobile AD-HOC Networks: A Blockchain-Based Approach

Abstract

This research presents a blockchain-based security system to improve Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks' (MANETs') privacy and security. Because of its decentralized design and changing topology, MANETs are susceptible to many security risks. The proposed framework leverages blockchain technology's decentralized, tamper-resistant ledger to secure communications within the network. Key components of the framework include a lightweight blockchain architecture tailored for resource-constrained environments, consensus mechanisms adapted for MANETs, and the integration of smart contracts to automate security operations. The framework addresses common threats like eavesdropping, Sybil attacks, and data tampering while maintaining low computational and communication overhead. Performance evaluation through simulations demonstrates the framework's effectiveness in enhancing security and privacy, with comparative analysis showing significant improvements over existing solutions. The research also explores the practical application of the framework in a real-world disaster recovery scenario, highlighting its potential to secure critical communications in challenging environments. This work contributes to the field by providing a scalable, efficient, and robust security solution for MANETs, with implications for various applications requiring secure, decentralized communication networks.