Security framework for software defined wireless networks

Abstract

The fifth generation (5G) of wireless networks are very complex infrastructures due to their new services and the augmentation of the density of connected devices. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standardization body continuously promotes best practices, control, and data handling processes within such infrastructures. Many business models have also encouraged the proliferation and expansion of device connectivity and network densification through the 5G core solution. The complexity of the network and its ability to evolve constantly influence the security approaches considered. Although necessary, traditional security mechanisms implementing access control (e.g., IP/TCP or application-level firewalls) cannot solely fulfill the security requirements of 5G. Two major enablers in 5G networks are Software Defined Networks (SDNs) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV). Although these technologies offer some advantages concerning network management and programmability, they open the door to new security issues. As such, running Cloud Radio Access Networks (C-RANs) in the context of a virtualized environment shared among different tenants can be a potential risk leading to numerous attacks; therefore, this environment tends to be untrusted. In this line of reference, this thesis targets deploying novel security solutions for the authentication, prevention, detection, and mitigation for 5G software-defined wireless networks.

Date	15 Apr 2023
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	École de technologie supérieure
Supervisor	Georges Kaddoum (Supervisor)