Mobile ad hoc networks (MANET) are formed when two or more nodes come within the communication range of each other. Since the wireless range is very short, all the nodes in the network have to extend their complete co-operation for efficient functioning of the network. This paper proposes a generalized trust framework for any ad hoc routing protocol to curb selfish and malicious nodes in a MANET. The trust relationships existing between the nodes determine the routing path to be taken for data transfer. The trust framework is combined with any MANET routing algorithm. The performance analysis of this framework is currently done with two reactive protocols. Jointly, they form a trusted network to curb various attacks originating in the ad hoc network. This type of a trusted framework established in a MANET, would be most suited for tactical environments. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.