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Multi-Agent Based Distributed Malware Detection Using Static Analysis and Machine Learning

Bhanarkar, Tejas (2025) Multi-Agent Based Distributed Malware Detection Using Static Analysis and Machine Learning. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

As malware continues to evolve in complexity whereas traditional centralized detection systems struggle to deliver timely and scalable responses. This project proposes a decentralized Multi-Agent System (MAS) for malware detection and mitigation which is based solely on static analysis of executable files. The architecture integrates autonomous agents that collaboratively detect, classify, mitigate, and log threats using machine learning model and secure communication protocols. The Detection Agent extracts predefined static features such as Portable Executable (PE) headers and opcode frequencies, while a trained Random Forest classifier determines infection likelihood. The Decision Agent interprets results, triggering appropriate action via the Mitigation Agent and ensuring auditability through a Blockchain Logger Agent. Results demonstrate accurate classification performance, low-latency mitigation, and modular design for scalable deployment on edge, cloud, and hybrid infrastructures. This research validates MAS as a viable solution for distributed malware detection, combining autonomy, security, and adaptability.

Item Type: Thesis (Masters)
Supervisors:
Name
Email
Tomer, Vikas
UNSPECIFIED
Subjects: Q Science > QA Mathematics > Computer software > Computer Security > Database security > Blockchains (Databases)
T Technology > T Technology (General) > Information Technology > Computer software > Computer Security > Database security > Blockchains (Databases)
Z Bibliography. Library Science. Information Resources > ZA Information resources > ZA4050 Electronic information resources > Databases > Distributed databases > Blockchains (Databases)
T Technology > T Technology (General) > Information Technology > Cloud computing
Q Science > QA Mathematics > Computer software > Computer Security
T Technology > T Technology (General) > Information Technology > Computer software > Computer Security
Q Science > QA Mathematics > Electronic computers. Computer science > Computer Systems > Computers > Electronic data processing > Electronic data processing--Distributed processing > Edge computing
T Technology > T Technology (General) > Information Technology > Electronic computers. Computer science > Computer Systems > Computers > Electronic data processing > Electronic data processing--Distributed processing > Edge computing
Q Science > Q Science (General) > Self-organizing systems. Conscious automata > Machine learning
Divisions: School of Computing > Master of Science in Data Analytics
Depositing User: Ciara O'Brien
Date Deposited: 30 Jun 2026 17:09
Last Modified: 30 Jun 2026 17:09
URI: https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/9412

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