ENHANCING NETWORK SECURITY DECISION-MAKING:

ACGAN- POWERED MACHINE LEARNING FOR

UNBALANCED DATA IN NETWORK ATTACKS

Dr. R Deeptha 1, Gokul Raja A 2, Rahul Raj S 3, Bharanidharan N R 4, Assistant Professor

1
, UG Student 2,3,4, Department of Information Technology, SRM Institute of Science and
Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai,
deepthar@srmist.edu.in 1, ga8436@srmist.edu.in 2, rs1389@srmist.edu.in 3,
bn6665@srmist.edu.in 4

ABSTRACT threats. Keywords: 1. Network Security, 2.

This study proposes an innovative
approach to network security decision-
making by leveraging Auxiliary Classifier
Generative Adversarial Networks
(ACGANs) to address imbalanced data in
network attack detection. ACGANs
facilitate the generation of synthetic data
resembling network attacks, thereby
balancing datasets and enhancing model
training accuracy. The research aims to
improve the capability of distinguishing
between normal network traffic and
attacks, thereby fortifying decision-
making processes and strengthening
overall network security posture. Through
ACGAN-powered machine learning, this
study showcases the potential for more
accurate and resilient detection of
network threats, paving the way for
advanced security systems capable of
adapting to evolving cyber threats in real-
time. Proposing an innovative network
security approach using Auxiliary
Classifier Generative Adversarial
Networks (ACGANs), the aim is to tackle
imbalanced data in attack detection.
ACGANs generate synthetic attack-like
data, balancing datasets for improved
model training accuracy. The objective is
to enhance accuracy in distinguishing
normal traffic from attacks, fortifying
decision-making and overall network
security. ACGAN-powered machine
learning shows potential for accurate
threat detection, marking a significant
stride in fortifying network security
against diverse
ACGAN, 3. Machine Learning, 4.
Unbalanced Data, 5. Decision-Making, 6.
Network Attacks, 7. Synthetic Data
Generation, 8. Model Training, 9.
Detection
Accuracy, 10. Threat Identification, 11.
Imbalanced Datasets, 12. Robust Defense
Mechanisms, 13. Cybersecurity, 14.
Intrusion Detection, 15. Real-time Security
Systems.
I INTRODUCTION
1.1 OVERVIEW
In the contemporary interconnected digital
realm, ensuring robust network security
stands as imperative to safeguarding
sensitive data and vital infrastructure.
Nonetheless, conventional methods of
identifying network threats often encounter
difficulties when dealing with imbalanced
data, where instances of normal network
behavior outnumber occurrences of
malicious attacks. This discrepancy can
significantly impede the efficacy of machine
learning models trained for intrusion
detection, resulting in elevated false
positives or overlooked detections of
genuine threats. To tackle this challenge,
this project suggests an innovative approach
employing Auxiliary Classifier Generative
Adversarial Networks (ACGANs) driven by
machine learning methodologies.
Through harnessing the capabilities of
ACGANs, this project aims to produce
synthetic data closely resembling network
attacks, thereby balancing datasets and
enhancing the accuracy of detection
models. ACGANs provide a distinct
advantage in their capacity to generate
realistic synthetic data, thereby furnishing
a more varied and representative training
set for machine learning algorithms.
II LITERATURE SURVEY
“Jiale Zhang, Bing Chen, Xiang
Cheng, Huynh Thi Thanh Binh, and
Shui Yu authored a paper titled 'Poison
GAN:” Generative Poisoning Attacks
Against Federated Learning in Edge
Computing Systems' in 2021. The study
delves into the vulnerabilities of federated
learning frameworks, particularly in the
context of edge computing systems, and
explores the mechanisms of poisoning
attacks. “Zina Chkirbene, Aiman
Erbad, Ridha Hamila, and Ala
Gouissem authored a paper titled
'Weighted Trustworthiness for ML
Based Attacks Classification' in 2020.”
The study addresses the vulnerabilities of
the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to
various types of attacks and explores
novel systems for network protection.
Concerns arise regarding the efficacy of
these systems due to increasing levels of
required human interaction. “Aeryn
Dunmore, Julian Jang-Jaccard, Fariza
Sabrina, and Jin Kwa authored a paper
titled 'A Comprehensive Survey of
Generative Adversarial Networks
(GANs) in Cybersecurity Intrusion
Detection' in 2023.” The study explores
the significant interest in Generative
Adversarial Networks (GANs) since their
introduction in 2014 and their expansion
beyond image-based tasks into various
fields of machine learning research.
Specifically focusing on cybersecurity,
the paper examines the use of GANs in
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and
their applications in training on
unbalanced datasets of attack classes.
“Ritu Khare, Jiao Li, and Zhiyong Lu
authored a paper titled 'Data Driven
Network Monitoring and Intrusion
Detection using Machine Learning' in
2020.” The study addresses the critical
global concern of cybersecurity and the
pivotal role played by Intrusion Detection
Systems (IDS) in protecting interconnected
networks from malicious actors and
activities. Recognizing the potential of
Machine Learning (ML)-based behavior
analysis within IDS for detecting dynamic
cyber threats and identifying
abnormalities, the paper introduces a novel
ML-based network intrusion detection
model. “Duc
C. Le, Nur Zincir-Heywood, and
Malcolm I. Heywood authored a paper
titled 'Analyzing Data Granularity
Levels for Insider Threat Detection
Using Machine Learning' in 2020.” The
study addresses the significant threat posed
by malicious insider attacks to networked
systems of companies and government
agencies, highlighting challenges such as
hugely unbalanced data, limited ground
truth, and behavior drifts and shifts. The
paper proposes and evaluates a machine
learning-based system for user-centered
insider threat detection.
2.1 INFERENCE
The literature survey underscores the
critical role played by machine learning in
advancing the field of network security and
intrusion detection. By harnessing the power
of artificial intelligence and data-driven
approaches, researchers have made
significant strides in developing sophisticated
intrusion detection systems capable of
autonomously detecting and mitigating cyber
threats. Key findings from the surveyed
papers include the effectiveness of deep
learning models such as recurrent neural
networks and generative adversarial
networks in handling complex network data,
the importance of addressing data imbalance
and feature extraction challenges.
III SYSTEM ANALYSIS
3.1 EXISTING SYSTEM
In this section, we present a
thorough examination of the proposed
system aimed at enhancing network
security decision- making through the
utilization of ACGAN- powered machine
learning to tackle the issue of unbalanced
data in network attacks. The
system analysis encompasses an
exploration of existing methodologies,
their constraints, and introduces innovative
approaches to surmount these obstacles.
3.2 DRAWBACKS
OF EXISTING
SYSTEM
1. High False Positive Rates: Traditional
ML leads to frequent misidentifications,
increasing false alarms.
2. Missed Detections of Actual Attacks:
Static data collection causes overlooks in
identifying real threats.
3. Limited Adaptability to Evolving
Threat Landscapes: Systems struggle to
adjust to changing threats, compromising
security.
4. Static Data Collection Methodologies:
Static data gathering hinders real-time
threat awareness and response.
5. Manual Data Curation Leading to
Scalability Issues: Manual curation slows
down scalability, hindering efficient data
handling.
3.3 PROPOSED WORK
In contrast to the limitations of the existing
system, our proposed network security
decision-making framework leverages
cutting-edge techniques, including
Auxiliary Classifier Generative Adversarial
Networks (ACGANs) and sophisticated
machine learning algorithms, to address the
shortcomings of traditional approaches.
3.4 ADVANTAGES
1. Enhanced accuracy in distinguishing
between normal and malicious network
traffic: ACGAN-based ML balances
datasets for precise threat detection.
2. Real-time adaptation to evolving threat
landscapes: Swift adjustments ensure
effectiveness against emerging attacks,
reducing false negatives.
3. Integration of advanced anomaly
detection algorithms: Identifies subtle
deviations for early threat detection.
4. Transparent and interpretable results
through explainable AI techniques:
Understandable decisions enhance trust and
response strategies.
5. Scalability and efficiency through
automated data generation and model
adaptation: Streamlined processes handle
dynamic environments efficiently.
IV SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
4.1 HARDWARE
REQUIREMENTS
1. Computer System: Adequate processing
power, memory capacity for machine
learning tasks.
2. Processor: Multicore processor, supports
parallel processing, expedites algorithm
execution.
3. Memory (RAM): 4GB RAM ensures
smooth operation, manages large datasets
effectively.
4. Storage: Enough space for datasets,
trained models, interim results.
4.2. SOFTWARE
REQUIREMENTS
1. Programming Environment: Python or
anaconda navigator for implementation.
2. Development Environment: Jupyter
Notebook for interactive algorithm
prototyping.
3. Operating System: Windows 7, 8, or 10
(32/64 bit).
4. Libraries and Frameworks:
TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn for
algorithm development.
V SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
The proposed AECGAN model enhances
network security decision-making by
addressing imbalanced data challenges. It
integrates anomaly detection algorithms,
transparent outcomes through explainable
AI, and real-time response to evolving
threats. With components for data
preprocessing, model development, and
intrusion detection, it offers robust defense
against adversarial attacks.
 Fig 6.2 Data Augmentation Module

6.3 FEATURE ENGINEERING

MODULE:
The Feature Engineering Module
extracts informative features from
Fig 5.1 Architecture Diagram
preprocessed data using diverse methods like
correlation analysis and recursive feature
VI SYSTEM MODULES
elimination, enhancing predictive capability.
• Data Preprocessing Module
• Generative Adversarial Networks
- Data Augmentation Module
• Feature Engineering Module
• Machine Learning Classification
• Evaluation and Performance Metrics
• Visualization and Reporting Module

6.1 DATA
PROCESSING
MODULE
The Data Preprocessing Module
refines, organizes, and standardizes raw
network traffic data, employing methods
like normalization, feature extraction, and
dimensionality reduction.
Fig 6.3 Feature Engineering Module
6.4 MACHINE LEARNING
CLASSIFICATION MODULE:
The Machine Learning Classification
Module categorizes network traffic using
techniques like decision trees, SVM, and
neural networks, aiming for accurate
intrusion detection.

Fig 6.1 Data

Preprocessing
Module

6.2 GAN-BASED DATA

AUGMENTATION
MODULE:
The Data Augmentation Module,
driven by GANs, synthesizes data to Fig 6.4 Machine Learning Classification
balance datasets, enhancing representation,
while the Intrusion Detection Module
monitors and identifies network threats.
6.5 ASSESSMENT AND
PERFORMANCE
METRICS MODULE:
The Evaluation Module assesses intrusion
detection system performance using metrics
like accuracy and ROC curves, employing
statistical analyses for comparison.
Fig 6.5 Assessment and
Performance Metrics Module
6.6 VISUALIZATION
AND REPORTING
MODULE:
The Visualization Module creates
graphical representations such as confusion
matrices, ROC curves, and feature
importance plots, aiding in system
comprehension. Reports are generated in
PDF, HTML, or interactive dashboards.
Fig 6.6 Visualization and
Reporting Module
VII RESULT & DISCUSSION
The Results and Discussion chapter
provides an in-depth analysis of the
proposed network security scheme's
performance,
effectiveness, and implications. It explores
experimental findings and insights, assessing
intrusion detection challenges and network
security. Through thorough experimentation
and analysis, it unveils strengths, limitations,
and potential impacts on network resilience
and cyber threat mitigation.
7.1 EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS
1. Experimental Setup and Dataset: The
section details data collection, preprocessing,
and domain-specific considerations, setting
the stage for Flask web app performance
analysis.
2. Evaluation Metrics and Performance
Analysis: It delves into precision, recall, and
threshold optimization, providing insights
into Flask web app performance through
numerical and graphical analyses.
Fig 7.1 Evaluation Metrics and
Performance Analysis
3. Comparative Analysis and Interpretation
of Results: The section compares Flask web
app performance across various ML
algorithms, discussing interpretability and
actionable insights derived from the results.
7.2 PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS
The performance analysis of the ML models
presents a comprehensive evaluation of their
effectiveness in detecting network intrusions.
Each model's training and test scores offer
insights into their individual capabilities to
classify network traffic accurately. The K-
Nearest Neighbors (KNN) model exhibits
high performance with a training score of
98.08% and a test score of 97.82%,
demonstrating its ability to generalize well to
unseen data.

Fig 7.2 Performance Analysis
7.3 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
The section evaluates the proposed
scheme against existing methodologies,
emphasizing its transformative potential in
network security decision-making.
Fig 7.3 Comparative Analysis
VIII CONCLUSION
In conclusion, this project offers a robust
network security solution, employing
advanced ML techniques like GANs and
ensemble learning. The system's
effectiveness in real-time incident detection,
scalability, and innovative features set a
new standard in cybersecurity, empowering
organizations to defend against evolving
threats effectively.
IX FUTURE ENHANCEMENTS
1. Adaptive Learning Mechanisms:
Implement continuous improvement
through adaptive learning, incorporating
real-time feedback and emerging threat
analysis.
2. Integration of Explainable AI: Enhance
transparency by integrating explainable AI
techniques for better intrusion detection
understanding.
3. Multi-Modal Data Fusion: Integrate
diverse data sources like network logs to
enhance detection accuracy.
4. Real-Time Threat Intelligence:
Incorporate real-time threat feeds to
proactively identify and mitigate emerging
threats.
5. Automated Response Mechanisms:
Develop automated defenses to swiftly
respond to security threats and prevent
network compromise.
X REFERENCES
1. M. Fang, X. Cao, J. Jia, and N. Z. Gong,
"Local model poisoning attacks to
Byzantine- robust federated learning", Proc.
USENIX Security Symp., pp. 1605-1622,
2020.
2. Z. Wang, M. Song, Z. Zhang, Y. Song, Q.
Wang, and H. Qi, "Beyond inferring class
representatives: User-level privacy leakage
from federated learning", Proc. IEEE
INFOCOM Conf. Comput. Commun., pp.
2512-2520, 2019.
3. E. Bagdasaryan, A. Veit, Y. Hua, D.
Estrin, and V. Shmatikov, "How to backdoor
federated learning", Proc. 23rd Int. Conf.
Artif. Intell. Stat. (AISTATS), pp. 1-10,
2020.
4. L. Melis, C. Song, E. D. Cristofaro, and V.
Shmatikov, "Exploiting Unintended Feature
Leakage in Collaborative Learning," in Proc.
IEEE S&P, 2019, pp. 691-706.
5. J. Zhang, B. Chen, S. Yu, and H. Deng,
"PEFL: A privacy-enhanced federated
learning scheme for big data analytics," in
Proc. IEEE Globecom, 2019, pp. 1-6.
6. P. R. Grammatikis, P. Sarigiannidis, G.
Efstathopoulos, and E. Panaousis, "ARIES:
A novel multivariate intrusion detection
system for smart grid," Sensors, vol. 20, no.
18, p. 5305, Sep. 2020.