A new era of interconnection, especially with the Internet of Things (IoT), is heralded by the spread of 5G networks. Although this provides previously unheard-of connection, it also increases the exposure of IoT devices to more outside sources and software errors.
With its historically high speed, extremely low latency, and ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously, 5G technology is completely changing the connection environment. Moreover, in light of the fact that the IoT depends on smooth, real-time device connection, this technological advancement is significant. IoT ecosystems must be protected, but as the 5G era develops, it also brings with it new security issues.
The most recent Ericsson Mobility Report estimates that there were approximately 1.9 billion 5G subscriptions worldwide as of October 2023. With China alone having over 341 cities with 5G coverage, Asia Pacific continues to be a major development engine. However, because of the frequent changes in the market, it is necessary to constantly monitor the precise geographical percentage of 5G subscribers.
The following image shows how 5G provides an “unlimited experience” “for everything” on an “instant action”.
However, businesses may see significant security implications when integrating 5G technology more fully into their digitization plans. Is your company preparing to implement 5G?
Following are some of the issues that 5G brings with it:
- Every Internet of Things item now has the potential to be a point of entry for cybercriminals due to this surge in connection. The spread of Internet of Things devices, from domestic appliances to vital infrastructure parts, opens up a wide and varied attack surface. Cybercriminals can conduct attacks, compromise data, or interrupt services by taking advantage of weaknesses in these devices.
- Software-defined networking, or SDN, plays a major role in 5G’s dynamic resource management. SDN offers efficiency and flexibility, but it also centralizes control, which increases the risk of a single point of failure.
- Lastly, The speed at which cyberattacks spread may quicken thanks to 5G’s greater data transfer speeds. In contrast to 4G, malware and ransomware, for instance, can propagate across a 5G network far more swiftly, giving less time for detection and reaction. Furthermore, hackers may be able to take advantage of the higher bandwidth to exfiltrate more data in less time.
ARE 5G ENTERPRISE NETWORKS SUFFICIENTLY SECURE?
Although 5G has enormous promise to improve connectivity and IoT applications, it also increases the security threats related to IoT devices. Therefore, a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity is needed to address these issues, one that includes strong device security, cutting-edge network safeguards, and ongoing monitoring.
REFERENCES
Kandadai, L. (2020, September 15). Top 5 5G Security Considerations for Enterprises. Palo Alto Networks Blog.
https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/2020/09/netsec-top-5-5g-security-considerations/.
rinf.tech. (2024, January 25). IoT Security In 5G Era. Rinf.tech.