5G is the next generation of mobile networks, and its introduction marks the beginning of a new era in the world of networking and
cybersecurity. The fifth generation of mobile networks is not only faster than all the previous ‘Gs’ that were launched but also offers new and exciting opportunities for businesses. It is expected to be a game-changer for the business world because of its capabilities to expand business offerings and connect to the IoT.
Let's delve into the insights about the new possibilities 5G technology brings for businesses.
New Technology: Possibilities 5G Technology Brings In for Businesses
Among the most significant benefits of 5G technology is the potential for employees to achieve more in less time, which increases revenue and reduces costs. The tremendous jump in connectivity provided by 5G will generate considerable opportunity for a wide range of industries from healthcare to retail to fintech. According to a study by IHS Markit, the global economy will be worth $13.2 trillion by 2035. This will create 22.3 million jobs in the 5G global value chain alone.
Increased IoT Capabilities
IoT devices are notoriously vulnerable due to their ease of use and connection.
In 2020, Forescout Research found 33 IoT vulnerabilities affecting four open-source TCP/IP stacks (FNET, uIP, Nut/Net, and PicoTCP). According to Forescount, these stacks power millions of devices worldwide.
The enormous development of IoT systems has been fueled by consumer devices, business network appliances, and industrial IoT (IIoT) devices. 5G will improve various IoT functionalities and provide critical upgrades to entire networks without pausing functionality, freezing operations or overloading servers.
Bridging the Skills Gap
Because of advancements in video and remote technologies, 5G will also tremendously benefit small businesses by enhancing hiring processes and assisting business owners in hiring suitable talent to contribute to their business development and help their businesses grow. 5G breaks down barriers to hiring by letting companies find, interview, narrow down, and hire the best people worldwide.
Cost Savings
5G is expected to enhance the battery life of devices such as laptops by up to ten times. As a result, companies will see cost savings by lowering the quantity of hardware and IT infrastructure required. This represents a move away from a hardware-driven economy and into an economy that is majorly anchored on software and systems. Savings on decreased administration and other operations can permeate the organization and eventually contribute to the bottom line.
New Threats: 5G Cybersecurity Risks
Like every technology born, even 5G networks face various threats. Some are passed down from previous generations and legacy standards, while others are new threats associated with the software-defined networking technology owing to 5G. Below are some of the 5G security issues that businesses can tackle with the help of additional cybersecurity measures.
Inherited & Emerging Vulnerabilities
Compared to earlier generations of wireless networks, 5G is designed to be more secure. For backward compatibility, 5G must still be able to communicate with older standards. In the absence of a security-minded approach, this compatibility requirement assures that the flaws discovered in the outdated SS7 and Diameter protocols utilized by 2G and 4G networks can still haunt a new 5G-based network architecture.
Growing Supply Chain Concerns
As a result of government intervention in the development of telecom equipment, 5G security risks have been politicized. The use of 5G infrastructure equipment sold by Chinese vendors like ZTE and Huawei is banned in various countries, including the United Kingdom, India, and the United States. These regulations were put in place because of fears that Chinese governmental control over these 5G equipment vendors could undermine the design and
data security of 5G equipment offered by these companies.
Decentralized security
In 5G networks, traditional security checkpoints like hub-and-spoke hardware-based routers have been replaced by cloud of software-defined digital routers that can't be looked at or managed. With more routing points and devices, as well as quicker speeds that favor smash-and-grab attackers, security teams must depend on automated monitoring and create innovative methods to address the rising security vulnerabilities.
More IoT Devices
Not all manufacturers are emphasizing cybersecurity, as seen with many low-end smart devices. 5G means more effectiveness and possibilities for the Internet of Things (IoT). As the number of connected devices grows, so does the number of prospective areas of attack. Devices such as a fish tank thermometer and a smart TV are examples of devices that might weaken the network. Network breaches and hacking could become more frequent because of the absence of
security standards for IoT devices.
Overcoming 5G Security Challenges
Even if the new 5G technology doesn't fundamentally impact the measures that businesses must take to secure their assets, it does reduce the margin for error and raise the stakes in the event of a failure. Many strategies for dealing with existing network security issues apply equally well to 5G security threats.
Strengthen Existing Cybersecurity Measures
As we know, most security threats to 5G technology originate from previous generations. Businesses should continue to use existing security techniques to combat such attacks. Businesses must strengthen their existing security equipment to make those strategies more effective. Also, it is essential to educate users in order to minimize human errors that can compromise data and network security.
Regular Infrastructure Audit
When it comes to data exfiltration, a bad actor's dream is a company's blind spots. You'll need to audit your company's personnel infrastructure. You should also keep an eye on 4G-related vulnerabilities that could continue to harm older devices and networks.
Deploy AI & ML for Protection
Security providers are
embedding AI and machine learning (ML) into their products and services to combat more complex cyberattacks. Experts believe that AI and machine learning systems can grow with the threat matrix, learning to detect and eliminate threats before they breach critical systems and put lives and sensitive data at risk. This will greatly help secure the network and safeguard the data stored in the cloud.
IoT Management Solutions
As 5G devices become available on mobile device management software, it is essential to control them to ensure device security. To secure the devices that will use 5G technology, you must look for a device management system that can evolve with the demands of your business. Look for a system that focuses on IoT management particularly.
Tech Manufacturers Should Develop Secured Products
5G will double the number of connected devices while increasing speed and bandwidth. Unfortunately, many IoT devices are fundamentally insecure, making them obvious targets for hackers. Each insecure IoT device on a company's network offers an additional possible attack route. To prevent IoT devices from being vulnerable targets for cybercriminals, manufacturers must make them more secure. Also, the IoT
Cybersecurity Act, which applies to government contractors, was passed by the US Congress. However, regulation of industry suppliers is still not good enough.
Key Elements for 5G Cybersecurity for Businesses
Conclusion
5G technology will be embraced despite all the challenges since it promises to provide businesses with a powerful new tool capable of driving faster, broader IoT deployments and a competitive advantage in the market. One harsh reality of the digital age is that risks will always exist. In line with the birth of every new technology, new threats are also born, and in the same manner, even solutions emerge. Businesses can overcome all challenges and eliminate all 5G security threats by implementing proper measures. 5G, IoT, AI, and ML are all part of the global tech revolution; leverage these technologies today to position yourself as a leader of tomorrow.
FAQ
What is the frequency of 5G?
Verizon's millimeter wavelength (mmWave)-based 5G Ultra Wideband runs at frequencies between 28 and 39GHz. This is far higher than the frequency used by 4G networks, which ranges between 700 and 2500 MHz.
What are the fundamental technologies that makeup 5G?
OFDM (Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing) is a way of modulating a digital signal over several channels to decrease interference. 5G employs the 5G NR air interface in conjunction with OFDM principles. 5G also makes use of higher bandwidth technologies like sub-6 GHz and mmWave.
Why does a businessperson need 5G training?
Faster connections mean more efficient business operations for your organization. Employees can anticipate that 5G will improve internal and external communications, allowing for better flexibility and time efficiency. Employees should also expect less restriction on where they can work, open doors during office hours, the ability to work from home, and a much better balance between work and life.