Abstract <p>The features of mobile ad hoc networks are examined. The models of node interaction in these networks are analyzed, taking into account protection against network attacks, and their advantages and disadvantages are identified. A model of node interaction in a mobile ad hoc network is proposed, taking into account protection against active network attacks based on early attack detection. Early detection of network attacks is achieved by predicting the network parameters and further analyzing them using machine learning methods. A trust model is also used to exclude malicious nodes from the network.</p>