What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to develop a real-time system for detecting deauthentication attacks on Wi-Fi networks using the ESP8266 microcontroller.

March 24, 2026Open Access

Wi-Fi Deauthentication Attack Detection Using ESP8266 -Based Real-Time Packet Monitoring

Key Points

The research aims to develop a real-time system for detecting deauthentication attacks on Wi-Fi networks using the ESP8266 microcontroller.
Developed an IDS using the ESP8266 microcontroller configured in promiscuous mode.
Captured Wi-Fi frames to analyze management frame exploits.
Identified deauthentication (0xC0) and disassociation (0xA0) attack subtypes.
Extracted attacker MAC addresses and triggered alerts using LCD, buzzer, and LED.
Conducted experiments to validate detection accuracy and latency.
Achieved detection latency of under 500 ms.
Attained 100% accuracy in controlled environments.
Recorded zero false positives in experiments.

Abstract

Wireless networks are increasingly critical to modern communication, yet they remain vulnerable to management frame exploits. Among these, deauthentication attacks are particularly disruptive, forcibly disconnecting clients from access points and enabling denial-of-service or man-in-the-middle intrusions. This paper presents a low-cost, real-time Intrusion Detection System (IDS) using the ESP8266 microcontroller. Configured in promiscuous mode, the ESP8266 captures Wi-Fi frames, identifies malicious subtypes (0xC0 for deauth, 0xA0 for disassoc), extracts attacker MAC addresses, and triggers alerts via LCD, buzzer, and LED. Experimental validation demonstrates detection latency under 500 ms, 100% accuracy in controlled environments, and zero false positives. The proposed solution democratizes Wi-Fi security for homes, small offices, and educational institutions, contributing to grassroots-level cybersecurity awareness.

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