The Impact of Denial-of-Service Attacks and Queue Management Algorithms on Cellular Networks

Abstract

In today's digital landscape, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks stand out as a formidable threat to organisations all over the world. As known technology gradually advances and the proliferation of mobile devices, cellular network operators face pressure to fortify their infrastructure against these risks. DDoS incursions into Cellular Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks can wreak havoc, elevate packet loss, and suboptimal network performance. Managing the surges in traffic that afflict LTE networks is of paramount importance. Queue management algorithms emerge as a viable solution to wrest control over congestion at the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer within LTE networks. These algorithms work proactively, anticipating, and mitigating congestion by curtailing data transfer rates and fortifying defences against potential DDoS onslaughts. In the paper, we delve into a range of queue management methods Drop-Tail, Random Early Detection (RED), Controlled Delay (CoDel), Proportional Integral Controller Enhanced (PIE), and Packet Limited First In, First Out queue (pFIFO). Our rigorous evaluation of these queue management algorithms hinges on a multifaceted assessment that encompasses vital performance parameters. We gauge the LTE network's resilience against DDoS incursions, measuring performance based on end-to-end delay, throughput, packet delivery rate (PDF), and fairness index values. The crucible for this evaluation is none other than the NS3 simulator, a trusted platform for testing and analysis. The outcomes of our simulations provide illuminating insights. CoDel, RED, PIE, pFIFO, and Drop-Tail algorithms emerge as top performers in succession. These findings underscore the critical role of advanced queue management algorithms in fortifying LTE networks against DDoS attacks, offering robust defences and resilient network performance.