Cognitive cyber situational awareness using virtual worlds

The use of network data visualization tools for cyber security is particularly challenging when large amounts of diverse data are displayed and continuously updated. These real-time changes can be used for context-sensitive decision making, but are impeded by a lack of expressive visualization techniques. In this work, we propose a new method for the visualization of network traffic - virtual worlds. These three-dimensional, immersive environments allow the representation of data and metrics within an expressive environment intuitive to many users. Furthermore, they provide a unique medium for users to collaborate in identifying and isolating security vulnerabilities. We provide a description of the system for situational awareness and proposed experiment involving cognitive processes of human vision, perception and action.