Security solutions for 5G network infrastructure focusing on network slicing security, edge computing protection, and threat mitigation.
Objectives
The primary objective of the 5G Network Protection project is to research, design, and implement advanced security solutions tailored for 5G network infrastructure. This includes addressing novel security challenges introduced by network slicing, edge computing, and increased virtualization, ensuring a robust and resilient 5G ecosystem.
Key Objective 1: Network Slicing Security
Develop and evaluate security mechanisms to isolate and protect individual network slices, preventing cross-slice attacks and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data within each slice.
Key Objective 2: Edge Computing Protection
Design and implement security protocols for edge computing environments in 5G, focusing on secure resource allocation, data processing, and protection against unauthorized access and malicious code execution.
Key Objective 3: Threat Mitigation & Resilience
Develop automated threat mitigation strategies and enhance the overall resilience of 5G networks against various cyber threats, including DDoS attacks, signaling attacks, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Methodology
Our methodology combines theoretical security analysis with practical implementation and testing in simulated and real-world 5G environments. We will utilize software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) principles to build flexible and adaptable security solutions.
Phase 1: 5G Threat Landscape Analysis
Conduct a detailed analysis of the unique security threats and vulnerabilities inherent in 5G architecture, including the core network, radio access network (RAN), and edge components.
Phase 2: Security Solution Prototyping
Design and prototype security solutions, such as intelligent firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and secure orchestration mechanisms, specifically adapted for 5G network functions.
Phase 3: Performance & Security Evaluation
Evaluate the developed security solutions in terms of their effectiveness against various attacks, their impact on network performance, and their scalability in dynamic 5G environments.
Expected Results & Impact
The 5G Network Protection project is expected to deliver a comprehensive suite of security solutions that will significantly enhance the security posture of next-generation cellular networks. This will have a profound impact on critical sectors relying on 5G, such as smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation, by ensuring the trustworthiness and reliability of their underlying communication infrastructure. The project will contribute to the standardization and best practices for 5G security worldwide.
Publications & Presentations
Project Team
- Dr. Justice Owusu Agyemang (Principal Investigator)
- Nani Desmond (PhD Candidate, Researcher)