Question

Which layer is associated with based utility attack?

(a) Physical layer

(b) Data link layer

(c) Network layer

(d) Transport layer

I had been asked this question in semester exam.

My question is based upon Next Generation Wireless Network topic in section Next Generation Wireless Network of Cognitive Radio

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) Physical layer

Explanation:

A based utility attack typically targets the fundamental characteristics of the physical layer in wireless communication systems. Here's why:

• Physical layer: This layer is responsible for the transmission and reception of raw bitstreams over a physical medium, including radio waves in the case of wireless communication. A based utility attack often involves attacking the signal transmission, reception, or interference mechanisms, affecting the wireless signal directly. This could include jamming, eavesdropping, or other forms of physical interference that degrade the communication.

  • Jamming is a common example of an attack at the physical layer where an attacker emits noise or interfering signals to disrupt the normal operation of the communication channel.
  • Eavesdropping is another attack at the physical layer where the attacker listens to the communication without permission.

• Data link layer: This layer is responsible for reliable communication between devices on the same network or link, and while it can be the target of attacks like MAC spoofing or collision-based attacks, these are generally different from attacks that directly affect the utility of the physical layer's capabilities.

• Network layer: The network layer is responsible for routing packets between devices across networks. It deals with issues like packet forwarding, routing, and congestion control. Attacks here could involve things like denial of service (DoS) or routing attacks, but utility-based attacks are generally more related to the physical layer, which is directly tied to the transmission medium and signal propagation.

• Transport layer: The transport layer manages end-to-end communication and flow control between hosts. Transport layer attacks like TCP/IP attacks (e.g., SYN flooding) affect data transmission reliability but don't typically deal with the utility of the physical transmission medium itself.