A joint framework of passive monitoring system for complex wireless networks

Monitoring and analyzing wireless networks for network structure and behavior is a complex task. Such monitoring often requires creating extra traffic, dedicated hardware and a prior knowledge of the network components and structure. In this paper we present a novel approach for monitoring large and complex wireless networks, fast deployed which operate seamlessly and in real time. The suggested framework uses few passive sniffers in order to sample the WiFi communication in the "air" per packet and have an extended cover range due to overhearing abilities. This monitoring system requires no prior knowledge of the network structure. We have designed, implemented and deployed such a passive monitoring system and used it to monitor the campus WLAN network (Wi-Fi). Experimental results show that the suggested framework is highly applicable for unmanaged and partly managed wireless networks such as Ad-hoc, first responders, self deployed and any highly dynamic network.