Secure Distributed Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks

Abstract

The critical requirement of the Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) is to enhance the accessibility of the spectrum in a manner that envisions utility of the spectrum holes by the Secondary Users (SUs) when the Primary Users (PUs), who are licensed, do not use the holes. The ability to identify the PUs and the spectrum holes is facilitated by the aspect of distributed spectrum sensing. Spectrum selection and sensing of the protocols necessitates ensuring that the PUs are rendered harmless or interfered with, including the assurance that the protocols are not subjected to modification in the primary signals. In that case, the secondary users need to follow the cognitive radio protocols and regulations, which is determined by the securing of the Distributed Spectrum Sensing (DSS) and selection protocols aiding in the provision of two fundamental cognitive radio network protocols. This contribution targets at evaluating the spectrum sensing and selection protocols by investigating critically into the distributed safe cooperating sensing scheme. Literature shows that there might be a security risk on the CRNs caused by an attacker to influence the provision of services, commonly referred as Denial of Services (DoSs). Thus, cryptographic security is necessary for distributed spectrum sensing and protocols in assuring the persistence of primary users services in cognitive radio networks.