An intrusion detection system for a local area network: a case study of small scale business organizations

Abstract

The issue of computer Network Security has generated much concern and attention in the past few years more and more than ever before. Over the years, the control of computer information has shifted more and more to desktops using passwords and physical security. This report is on the study of intrusion detection in Local Area Networks of small-scale business organizations that detects illegal connection of computers on the Network. It also addresses the Network attacks in today‟s World, intrusion detection methods that can be used and the weaknesses of the prevention methods used. This study was sparked off as a result of the expense associated with the use of modern security systems that cannot be afforded by small-scale business organizations. The study revealed that most small-scale business organizations in Uganda have simple intrusion prevention methods (instead of intrusion detection methods) that are rather inefficient hence they are at a high risk of attack by intruders. Therefore the development of a local intrusion detection system that can give a higher level of security than that given by the existing systems. This system is recommended for small-scale organizations because it is good enough and relatively inexpensive compared to other modern existing security systems. The developed intrusion detection system described in this report provides a framework that can be extended by developers so as to meet the future changing needs of the user.