Abstract
The development of intelligent transportation systems relies heavily on Cloud-assisted Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs); hence, these networks must be protected. Particularly susceptible to a broad range of assaults are VANETs because of their extreme dynamism and decentralization. Connected vehicles' safety and efficiency could be compromised if these security threats materialize, leading to disastrous road accidents. Solving these issues will require an advanced Intrusion Detection System (IDS) with real-time threat recognition and neutralization capabilities. A new method for improving VANET security, a multi-stage Lightweight IntrusionDetection System Using Random Forest Algorithms (MLIDS-RFA), focuses on feature selection and ensemble models based on machine learning (ML). A multi-step approach is employed by the proposed system, with each stage dedicated to accurately detecting specific types of attacks. Regarding feature selection, MLIDS-RFA uses machine-learning approaches to enhance the detection process. The outcome is a reduction in the amount of processing overhead and a shortening of the response times. The detection abilities of ensemble models are enhanced by integrating the strengths of the Random Forest algorithm (RFA), which safeguards against intricate dangers. The practicality of the proposed technology is demonstrated by conducting thorough simulation analyses. This research demonstrates that the system can reduce false positives while maintaining high detection rates. This research ensures next-generation transport networks' secure and reliable functioning and prepares the path for VANET protection upgrades. MLIDS-RFA has improved detection accuracy (96.2%) and computing efficiency (94.8%) for dynamic VANET management. It operates well with large networks (97.8%) and adapts well to network changes (93.8%). The comprehensive methodology ensures high detection performance (95.9%) and VANET security by balancing accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.