While 5G enables new capabilities and efficiencies in industrial processes, each network iteration also involves new sets of challenges in terms of testing and security. Advancements in technology have spurred a transformation in network and device testing. The stakeholders involved in network testing have been working to develop solutions that ensure consistent 5G performance for end users.
However, with the widespread deployment of 5G networks and the anticipation of 6G, attention must also be directed towards the cybersecurity concerns inherent in these technologies. Advancements in technology, combined with the broader development of networks beyond 5G radio access network (RAN), underscore the need for robust cybersecurity. Therefore, the need of the hour is the development of a comprehensive, integrated network security platform.
Network testing: 5G and beyond
Network testing is the process of analysing, identifying bugs and assessing network performance. However, the scope of 5G testing extends beyond verifying lightning-fast download speeds, super low latency and expansive coverage density. 5G testing serves as a catalyst for unlocking the full potential of 5G technology. The broad range of 5G use cases makes testing 5G networks almost as complex as designing the network itself. While deploying 5G services, service providers face challenges such as backward compatibility, interoperability and high quality requirements. Therefore, rigorous 5G network testing and troubleshooting are necessary for ensuring smooth operations.
Currently, simplified, end-to-end 5G test solutions are playing a vital role in the development, deployment and operational excellence of emerging 5G networks. In addition, 5G new radio (NR) is driving a new paradigm in the 5G test methodology. The NR spectrum covers frequencies from less than 6 GHz to 100 GHz. Beamforming is another advanced technology crucial to the success of 5G testing and deployment. This approach directs transmissions strategically to end-users, bypassing obstacles that interfere with high-frequency transmissions. Furthermore, a combination of millimetre wave (mmWave) utilisation, multiple-input multiple-output and beamforming significantly enhances 5G performance.
Stakeholders in the testing and measurement (T&M) domain should ensure that the testing of 5G networks and devices includes everything from the standardisation of new processes to the development and manufacturing of components, wireless devices and base stations.
Going ahead, the global shift towards 6G is not just an incremental improvement over 5G but a significant leap forward to revolutionise network operations. 6G will utilise higher frequency bands like terahertz (THz) and sub-mmWaves to allow greater data transmission. New technologies, such as quantum communications and blockchain, will be incorporated to enhance network security and resilience. Further, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and virtualisation are the key aspects of telecom expected to have the most significant impact on 6G testing.
As AI/ML becomes embedded natively into the design of the RAN functions, new test and validation methodologies will be required. These will involve not only upscaling the current testing equipment but also redefining measurement techniques. In the sub-THz bands, new challenges will arise in terms of beamforming, antenna packaging and integration, test probes and a tenfold decrease in wavelength. This will create new demands on over-the-air (OTA) system accuracy and link budgets. The OTA test set-ups introduced in 5G for frequency range 2 (24-52 GHz range) are expected to evolve further for sub-THz (100-300 GHz) frequencies. To accomodate these frequencies, OTA test methods will need to evolve further.
A key consideration for 6G test set-ups will be to create the right test architecture with virtualised components that match both the physical and virtualised components in the 6G system.
Testing 5G devices
The primary goal of testing 5G devices is to ensure that they meet the industry standards of 5G technology. Telecom equipment manufacturers undertake testing procedures to validate infrastructure devices such as base stations, as well as consumer premise equipment including routers, gateways, switches, transceiver stations, gNodeB, small cells and remote radio unit heads before their deployment for network services. Market projections indicate that the global market for testing 5G devices is anticipated to grow to $1.7 million by 2028, boasting a compound annual growth rate of 7 per cent.
Ensuring network security
The advent of 5G has marked the beginning of a new era of network security. Notably, 5G networks serve as critical infrastructures to facilitate digitalisation, automation and connectivity to machines, robots, transport solutions, etc. However, the stakes are high, and the risk tolerance differs significantly as well. Compared to its predecessors, 5G networks have a wider attack surface due to the increased number of connected devices and the denser network infrastructure. Additionally, reliance on cloud, virtualisation, and software-defined networking introduces new avenues for exploitation.
5G security risks include distributed denial of service attacks, potential data breaches and ransomware. The higher data speeds and lower latency provide cybercriminals with new opportunities to launch sophisticated attacks. The proliferation of internet of things (IoT) devices on 5G networks makes it challenging to secure these devices. Furthermore, since 5G infrastructure is built by multiple vendors across the globe, the supply chain becomes complex and potentially more vulnerable to security breaches.
A report by Palo Alto Networks reveals that 66 per cent of manufacturing companies in India have experienced increased risks due to unsecured IoT devices connected to their networks. Moreover, 69 per cent of telcos have faced new risks due to their increased reliance on cloud-based services and apps. Further, 57 per cent of telcos are concerned about the rise of ransomware.
Moving ahead, 6G is envisioned to provide intelligent connectivity and service using new physical, network and application layer technologies. With 6G networks, security considerations will entail new aspects such as physical layer security, network information security and AI-related security. To address these issues, novel technologies such as reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, blockchain, native AI, ubiquitous cloudification, internet of everything and quantum computing/communication will be integrated in innovative ways.
Indian scenario
India has been making significant progress in testing and securing 5G and upcoming 6G networks. The development of indigenous 5G test-beds has led to significant advancements, with testing conducted for various use cases such as rural broadband and smart city applications. In the Union Budget 2023-24, an additional Rs 55.6 million has been allocated to build 5G testbeds. The Indian T&M industry has also witnessed rapid growth due to technological advancements, and this is expected to continue with 6G networks.
In July 2023, HCL Technologies Limited launched a state-of-the-art test lab in Chennai. This facility aims to empower global telecom infrastructure original equipment manufacturers by providing them with the resources to test and validate 5G solutions. In November 2023, IIT Madras launched a state-of-the-art lab for testing 5G networks and network security, catering to both domestic and global markets. The lab was set up for testing 5G core network functions and 5G RAN functionality that adheres to third generation partnership project security and functional requirements and open RAN standards.
India also made a significant move by launching a 6G test-bed in 2023. The objective is to provide a platform for academic institutions; start-ups; micro, small and medium enterprises; and others to test and validate evolving information and communication technology solutions.
In addition, to support 6G technology, two agreements have been signed for projects with a grant of Rs 2.4 billion under the Telecom Technology Development Fund. The projects include a 6G THz testbed with orbital angular momentum and multiplexing, as well as an advanced optical communication test bed. It is aimed at exploring the potential of 6G technology using THz frequencies and advanced multiplexing techniques.
Bottom line
As 5G and 6G networks evolve in dynamic and programmable virtualised environments, they will face an increasing number of security threats. Stakeholders need to address challenges such as malware, identity theft, misconfiguration, application layer attacks and phishing. Moreover, it is essential to have a unified testing and security framework rather than treating solutions as separate and isolated tools to avoid additional issues.
To meet changing needs and expectations, next-generation network testing should operate in real time, delivering new solutions that are more flexible and powerful, and complement the existing testing methodologies. According to GSMA Intelligence, by 2030, 5G will overtake 4G, becoming the globally dominant mobile technology with 5.3 billion connections. This presents numerous opportunities and a range of enhanced network security benefits, including improved encryption and enhanced threat detection.
