Q-Learning: From Computer Network Security to Software Security

Reinforcement learning techniques become more popular in computer network security. The same reinforcement learning techniques developed for network security can be applied to software security as well. This research summarizes a work in progress attempt to incorporate Q-learning algorithm in software security. The Q-learning method is embedded as part of the software itself to provide a security mechanism that has ability to learn by itself to develop a temporary repair mechanism. The results of the experiment express that given the right parameters and the right setting the Q-learning approach rapidly learns to block all malicious actions. Data analysis on the Q-values produced by the software can provide security diagnostic as well. A larger scale experiment is expected to be seen in the future work.