An Overview of Emerging Technologies & Security Issues in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

A mobile ad hoc network (MANET), sometimes called a wireless mesh network, is a self-configuring network of mobile devices connected by wireless links. An Adhoc network is a network in which the locations of switches, routers can be mobile. Unlike traditional mobile wireless networks, ad hoc networks do not rely on any fixed infrastructure. Instead, hosts rely on each other to keep the network connected. Each Node has a router or switch connected by the wireless connection. The Union of connections is in arbitrary topology, allowing people and devices to seamlessly internetwork in areas with no pre-existing communication infrastructure. Traditionally, tactical networks have been the only communication networking application that followed the adhoc paradigm. Recently, the introduction of new Technologies such as the Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11, BRAN, Hyperlan and Hyperlan2 are Helping enable eventual commercial MANET deployments. These recent evolutions have been growing interest in the research and development of MANET. However, they are highly susceptible to attacks and it is very probable that an intruder catches already existing security measures out. This paper attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of this Dynamic field. It first explains the important role that mobile ad hoc networks play in the evolution of future wireless technologies and characteristics and applications. Then, it reviews the latest research activities in security issues in MANETs..