Improving Security in 5G and Next-Generation Networks Through Blockchain Integration

Abstract

The progression of wireless technologies to 5G and beyond has offered unmatched improvements in speed, latency, and connectivity which enables a wide range of applications from self-driving cars to IoT systems. At the same time, this has increased risks around network security, privacy, and trust management. Centralized security approaches are becoming less effective for next generation networks because of their dynamic, distributed, and high-density characteristics. This paper looks at the use of blockchain technology as a decentralized, immutable solution toward enhancing the security of 5G and subsequent networks. We analyse the issues of secure authentication, trust, control, data control, and transparent power segregation and access control to show how blockchain in question can address them. Moreover, we describe security frameworks and architectures for 5G technologies that incorporate blockchain along with its efficiency, flexibility, pragmatic relevance, and actual implementation. The study concludes with insights into existing challenges and potential research directions necessary to realize secure and resilient next generation wireless networks.