Enhancing Network Security Through Moving Target Defense Technology: An Analysis of the Impact on Attack Level
Saeed Izadi, Mahnaz Izadi, Golshid Ranjbaran, Shahabedin Homayounmajd · 2023
In recent years, the increasing importance of computer system security has been emphasized due to the rising threat landscape. Despite the implementation of various security measures, the persistence and evolution of cyber attacks pose challenges in establishing comprehensive security solutions. In response, researchers have turned to Moving Target Defense technology as a potential method to counter diverse cyber threats. This approach has garnered significant attention as it aims to improve the security of existing systems through structural adjustments. Moving Target Defense involves making continuous alterations to system attributes, introducing unpredictability to thwart potential attackers. However, detecting the acceptability of such a dynamic system presents a challenge. The concept of the "xattack surface" is crucial in this context, as it represents the resources that attackers exploit. Attackers continuously assess the attack surface to identify vulnerabilities in the target system. Research has confirmed a direct correlation between the size of the attack surface and the system’s vulnerability. Therefore, reducing the attack surface emerges as a solution to strengthen computer system security. This article focuses on how Moving Target Defense impacts the attack surface, highlighting its significance in mitigating cyber threats and enhancing overall network security.