Optimizing Cybersecurity Attack Detection in Computer Networks: A Comparative Analysis of Bio-Inspired Optimization Algorithms Using the CSE-CIC-IDS 2018 Dataset

Abstract

In computer network security, the escalating use of computer networks and the corresponding increase in cyberattacks have propelled Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) to the forefront of research in computer science. IDSs are a crucial security technology that diligently monitor network traffic and host activities to identify unauthorized or malicious behavior. This study develops highly accurate models for detecting a diverse range of cyberattacks using the fewest possible features, achieved via a meticulous selection of features. We chose 5, 9, and 10 features, respectively, using the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), Flower Pollination Algorithm (FPA), and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) feature-selection techniques. We successfully constructed different models with a remarkable detection accuracy of over 98.8% (approximately 99.0%) with Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), an accuracy of 98.7% with the Flower Pollination Algorithm (FPA), and an accuracy of 98.6% with the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC). Another achievement of this study is the minimum model building time achieved in intrusion detection, which was equal to 1 s using the Flower Pollination Algorithm (FPA), 2 s using the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), and 3 s using Ant Colony Optimization (ACO). Our research leverages the comprehensive and up-to-date CSE-CIC-IDS2018 dataset and uses the preprocessing Discretize technique to discretize data. Furthermore, our research provides valuable recommendations to network administrators, aiding them in selecting appropriate machine learning algorithms tailored to specific requirements.