A stratified model for security in peer networks: a case for fine grain granularity

In a peer network environment, which is typical in mobile ad-hoc wireless networks (MANETS), nodes collaborate to achieve some collective end. There is no hierarchy within the network, all nodes being given equal authority. In this untraditional environment we must provide traditional security properties and assure fairness in order to enable the secure, collaborative success of the network. One solution to this problem is to form a trusted domain. Such solutions have previously been intolerant of masquerading, and have suffered from a lack of precise control over the allocation and exercise of privileges within the trusted domain. We introduce a model based on the work of Yang'02 and Narasimha'03 that provides granular control over privileges, and guards against masquerading. The model is validate through the use of empirical measures for networks with size ranging from 30 to hundreds of nodes