Private 5G networks (ITSAP.80.117)

Private 5G (P5G) networks are dedicated, purpose-built networks designed for private use. They are a key driver of industrial development that integrates digital technologies, also known as Industry 4.0. They provide secure, high-performance wireless connectivity and support technologies, such as:

  • industrial robots
  • automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
  • smart grids
  • autonomous (driverless) haulage systems (AHS)
  • Internet of medical things (IoMT)

They are used in a range of industries and sectors, including:

  • logistics and warehousing
  • transportation
  • energy and utilities
  • mining and oil
  • healthcare

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Benefits of using private 5G networks

There are several potential technical and business reasons your organization may consider deploying P5G networks rather than 4G/LTE, Wi-Fi, or other technologies, such as:

  • faster deployment times
  • lower initial and operational costs
  • stronger security mechanisms and improved control
  • more flexibility
  • better coverage and performance (lower network latency, higher transmission rates and more bandwidth)

Deployment models

P5G networks can be deployed in complete isolation, integrated with public networks, or deployed as a virtual network slice depending on an organization's requirements. Generally, there are four main deployment models.

Standalone

Standalone P5G networks are fully isolated and controlled by the organization, including the radio access network (RAN) and core functions. The organization deploys, owns and operates the network, while overseeing subscriber management, provisioning and authentication mechanisms. This deployment model can provide complete isolation from public networks, making it the most secure option. As such, we recommend this model for high-security applications and critical infrastructure. A standalone P5G network is also suitable for large organizations with resources and expertise that want complete control.

Shared RAN

Shared RAN P5G networks combine elements of private and public 5G networks. Organizations that adopt this model use the existing RAN infrastructure of a mobile network operator (MNO) while keeping control of core functions and user plane traffic. This model is ideal for large-scale deployments, such as utility metre connectivity, emergency services and mobile devices requiring seamless roaming. This model is suitable for organizations looking to balance control and cost.

Shared RAN and control plane

In this model, organizations use the MNOs' RAN infrastructure, control plane and core functions while retaining the user plane. This simplified model reduces network operations and management efforts, allowing organizations to focus on the functional and operational aspects of their business. The RAN and control sharing model is suitable for organizations looking to balance control and cost.

Network slicing

Network slicing allows organizations to create isolated virtual networks within a public 5G infrastructure. This means organizations can have their own dedicated "slice" of the 5G network. This model is suitable for organizations focused on developing multiple types of applications or on providing services with distinct performance requirements. For example, it could support low latency for robotics and high bandwidth for video streaming. Network slicing is a low-cost option with the quickest time to market.

Risks and challenges of private 5G networks

P5G networks enhance security by reducing exposure to external cyber threats through additional layers of isolation. They also allow organizations to implement stronger and tailored security controls. However, even isolated networks remain vulnerable to determined actors looking to exploit misconfigurations or vulnerabilities in the P5G infrastructure.

P5G can introduce new and complex technologies to organizations that may not have experience operating 5G networks or defending against mobile network threats. Organizations considering P5G must be aware that the following risks and challenges could invalidate some of its security benefits:

  • lack of technical personnel with adequate P5G knowledge during the planning, deployment and operational phases
  • added complexity due to IT requirements to support the P5G deployment, such as cloud and virtualization infrastructure
  • inadequate supply chain assurance activities performed before and after acquiring equipment, such as:
    • failure to assess a supplier's cyber maturity, including adherence to secure-by-design principles
    • insufficient testing of P5G equipment using an industry-accepted security framework
  • inadequate security controls at interconnection points between the private and public 5G domains
  • insufficient isolation of P5G users, equipment, and end devices by type, vendor and security requirements
  • inadequate separation and security controls between P5G and other IT domains within the organization (enterprise, management, Internet)

Security best practices for private 5G networks

When deploying P5G, your organization should take steps to protect against some of the associated risks. To strengthen your organization's security and align with the zero-trust model, we recommend the following cyber security best practices:

  • Enforce strong access controls:
    • Implement security policies that mandate strict role-based access control
    • Use diverse identity management solutions
    • Do not allow credentials to be reused between general IT and P5G networks
  • Segment the network:
    • Divide your network into isolated segments
    • Implement adequate network access controls between security zones
    • Isolate users, equipment and end devices by type, vendor and security requirements
  • Perform regular security audits:
    • Conduct periodic assessments of your network and equipment to identify and address vulnerabilities
  • Train employees:
    • Provide continuous training to technical and front-end personnel on security best practices and the risks of social engineering attacks
  • Define an incident response plan:
    • Develop a comprehensive incident response plan (IRP) to effectively address security incidents
    • Include backup capabilities and procedures to operate safely on degraded capabilities until normal operations resume
    • Retain the ability to take over operations and disable traffic to vendors, managed service providers and remote operators
  • Manage supply chain threats:
    • Assess suppliers' cyber maturity and product development processes
    • Implement supply chain best practices for network equipment and end devices
    • Avoid using end-of-life products
    • Use products that have an active support contract with the manufacturer
  • Perform cyber defense activities:
    • Implement robust monitoring to detect anomalies, identify potential threats and block unwanted traffic
  • Adopt cyber security best practices for 5G networks:
    • Adhere to industry standards and participate in security initiatives to enhance your organization's cyber maturity
  • Implement adequate physical security controls:
    • Adhere to industry best practices for physical security of telecommunications and network equipment

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