Introduction to 5G Security
In 5G, security plays a vital role in ensuring the service has the highest quality of experience and end-to-end QoS. The privacy of user data is an essential requirement for safety and security of the mobile infrastructure. In 5G networks, especially in the non-standalone (NSA) scenario where the 3GPP network architecture can be used until 2020, user identity authentication is becoming more important as it may be desirable to combine that authentication with access authorization decisions and data encryption. Much of the hype around 5G has centered on its speed, but it also brings great advances in security. Security is a key driver for 5G adoption, and it will be the number-one benefit for enterprises looking to develop new business models that derive value from machine learning and AI in new ways.
The security of 5G networks is the focus of several key documents and initiatives which serve to define requirements, identify best practices and network-based security architecture, specify protocols for encryption and authentication and limit the potential impact of security threats. 5G provides a secure environment for new services and applications. As an open, global standard 5G enables operators and users to innovate at their own pace while the mobile ecosystem is enabled to respond quickly to new business opportunities while protecting user privacy. Today’s wireless world is facing new threats. Cyber criminals, terrorists and nation-state attackers use an ever-growing arsenal of exploits, bugs and vulnerabilities in mobile devices and apps. It’s no longer enough that networks themselves are secure; the intelligence itself must be secured from end-to-end. This capability relies on a unique combination of strong encryption, agile algorithms, identity protection and device trustworthiness. 5G will be the most transformative technology after the internet, and it will provide new opportunities to enhance and protect personal privacy. Security in 5G is designed to meet business and consumer demands for data security by deploying strong encryption systems while protecting privacy through the use of biometrics. Security on the 5G networks will be built upon a set of reliable and scalable security functions. Security is an essential ingredient in the process of 5G development. Security solutions for 5G are simplifying how security is managed across the network, with a single platform for all operator needs. Security in 5G is paramount for many reasons. First, with the 4G and 4G+ networks being so reliable, consumers are increasing their use of mobile technologies to complete daily tasks. Second, the increased speeds of 5G and its advanced capabilities with massive MIMO technology allow for a higher volume of data transmitted in a given amount of time. Increased speed also means increased requirements from security professionals to maintain security which can be a challenge, especially when cellular infrastructure is located outdoors. Last but not least, 5G will rely heavily on cloud computing and artificial intelligence to speed up data processing, again creating more need for secure network solutions. The security of 5G depends on the use cases and requirements. After considering all use cases, the expected attack vectors and their impacts, we implement appropriate security measures to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity are all protected. 5G provides a highly secure environment for users because it adopts strong authentication with user privacy protection mechanisms as well as network based location tracking. The security of 5G networks is a big concern, with major new technologies like self-organizing networks, massive machine learning and AI. These developments in technology will be very useful to fight against cyber attacks and make our lives safer. Every person should have their own 5G device at home so they can enjoy the benefits of an innovative environment.
