Enhanced botnet detection in IoT networks using zebra optimization and dual-channel GAN classification

The Internet of Things (IoT) permeates various sectors, including healthcare, smart cities, and agriculture, alongside critical infrastructure management. However, its susceptibility to malware due to limited processing power and security protocols poses significant challenges. Traditional antimalware solutions fall short in combating evolving threats. To address this, the research work developed a feature selection-based classification model. At first stage, a preprocessing stage enhances dataset quality through data smoothing and consistency improvement. Feature selection via the Zebra Optimization Algorithm (ZOA) reduces dimensionality, while a classification phase integrates the Graph Attention Network (GAN), specifically the Dual-channel GAN (DGAN). DGAN incorporates Node Attention Networks and Semantic Attention Networks to capture intricate IoT device interactions and detect anomalous behaviors like botnet activity. The model's accuracy is further boosted by leveraging both structural and semantic data with the Sooty Tern Optimization Algorithm (STOA) for hyperparameter tuning. The proposed STOA-DGAN model achieves an impressive 99.87% accuracy in botnet activity classification, showcasing robustness and reliability compared to existing approaches.