5G is a fifth-generation mobile network that provides efficient wireless communication over the previous generation. It provides faster data speeds, lower delays, and more capacity to connect with many devices simultaneously. In this work, network slicing in 5G networks is discussed with regard to security measures which include QKD(Quantum Key Distribution) and PQC(Post-Quantum Cryptographic). It allows for the formation of numerous granular and independent virtual networks based on a shared physical network. The model explores security where QKD keys address links and encompass PQC to counter other quantum technology threats in the future. Furthermore, there are reliability measures introduced, including route adjustments, with a self repairing capability for link failure in multi-slice networks. In this approach, the security and reliability features are incorporated in 5G network slicing to address the delivery of the services in the next-generation networks.
5G is a fifth-generation mobile network that provides efficient wireless communication over the previous generation. It provides faster data speeds, lower delays, and more capacity to connect with many devices simultaneously. In this work, network slicing in 5G networks is discussed with regard to security measures which include QKD(Quantum Key Distribution) and PQC(Post-Quantum Cryptographic). It allows for the formation of numerous granular and independent virtual networks based on a shared physical network. The model explores security where QKD keys address links and encompass PQC to counter other quantum technology threats in the future. Furthermore, there are reliability measures introduced, including route adjustments, with a self repairing capability for link failure in multi-slice networks. In this approach, the security and reliability features are incorporated in 5G network slicing to address the delivery of the services in the next-generation networks.
With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, existing cryptographic schemes in 4G LTE and 5G networks confront serious security threats. Traditional reliance on protocols like IPsec and Transport Layer Security leaves infrastructure vulnerable to future quantum attacks, particularly “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” attacks, where adversaries store current encrypted traffic for future decryption. To counter these threats, Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) have become potential solutions. As future 6G networks aim to realize ultra-reliable and ubiquitous secure connectivity, it is essential to incorporate both PQC and QKD solutions to ensure long-term robustness. Therefore, the synergy of these security solutions and 5G draws the attention of researchers and practitioners worldwide. This study systematically reviews the literature in this specific field. We analyzed evidence from reviewed literature to address three research questions, resulting in a novel taxonomy to categorize publications in this area and a vision for a quantum-safe 6G network. Moreover, we discussed several open challenges in 5G, PQC, and QKD, along with future work.
Modern connectivity has changed significantly as a result of wireless mobile networks’ utilization of continuous communication across an international infrastructure. Data protection and cyber attacks are two issues that continue to arise as mobile computing and wireless communication networks develop. As 5G networks give way to 6G networks, terahertz communication, artificial intelligence integration, and quantum technologies are introduced to provide high-speed data transfer and communications, along with improved security. In contrast, post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD) are two remote methods for addressing the need to adjust cryptographic systems in the current infrastructures to fight impending quantum threats. The fundamental ideas, real-world uses, and ways that PQC and QKD operate together to provide strong security for next-generation networks are all examined in this chapter.
The digitization of distribution networks necessitates robust, quantum-resistant communication protocols to secure end-to-main-station interactions amid escalating connectivity and quantum computing threats. Traditional cryptographic schemes, susceptible to Shor’s algorithm, prove inadequate in wireless settings marred by fading and interference, while prior QKD-5G hybrids neglect hierarchical architectures and service diversity. This paper proposes an innovative framework that fuses quantum key distribution (QKD) with 5G primitives—such as beamforming and network slicing—to realize stratified authentication, adaptive one-time-pad key distribution, and service-tailored protocols. Core innovations encompass threshold-based edge key pooling for enhanced scalability, channel state information (CSI)-driven QKD adaptations for noise mitigation, and convex-optimized slicing for isolating ultra-reliable low-latency (URLLC) and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) services. Security analysis establishes information-theoretic assurances against semi-honest adversaries, with simulations demonstrating superior key rates, low latencies, and large-scale terminal support—outperforming baselines in resilience. This framework propels quantum-secure smart grids forward, alleviating post-quantum vulnerabilities and promoting resilient energy systems.
Abstract Fifth-generation (5G) network technology is not just an improved extension of the fourth generation; it possesses several key properties, including high capacity, network slicing, low latency, high throughput, and network virtualisation.5G aims to provide a better-quality network. Users can access a variety of web services from any location at any time, thanks to the rapid advancements in wireless communication technologies and the increasing popularity of mobile devices. To provide secure communication, numerous schemes have been developed using the elliptic curve and problems based on the hardness of integer factorisation. However, these problems can be solved by quantum computers in polynomial time. Hence, these protocols are no longer safe on quantum computers. This article proposes a quantum-safe and efficient 5G cross-network slice authentication scheme to counter quantum adversaries. We have utilised the CSIDH-based key exchange protocol to enhance its security against quantum attacks. This scheme is based on the mathematical hard problem of computing the action of an ideal over an elliptic curve that is a commutative isogeny Diffie-Hellman problem (CSIDH). The security of the protocol is proved on the BPR model. Additionally, a comparison of all possible post-quantum 5G solutions using key exchange protocols such as Kyber, Classic McEliece, and SPHINCS+5G has been made.
An important aspect of 5G network implementation is high-level information security. The article discusses the use of the concept of Network Slicing in combination with quantum key distribution protocols to solve security and performance problems in 5G networks. Particular attention is paid to the Twin field protocol, which can achieve a high level of security, independence and effective management of each network slice, which contributes to the improvement of the quality of service and overall network performance. The paper explores security challenges in 5G networks, particularly in the context of growing cyber threats and the need for secure data exchange. The concept of network partitioning allows creating separate logical networks with their own characteristics and security settings. The use of quantum key distribution protocols allows for a high level of data transmission protection at every stage of network deployment. The results of the study confirm that the use of the network partitioning concept and quantum key distribution protocols can effectively solve security and performance problems in 5G networks. The conclusions and recommendations of the article can be used to develop new practical solutions to ensure the security and efficiency of 5G networks using quantum key distribution protocols, in particular the Twin field protocol.
Quantum computing is a rapidly developing field with the potential to revolutionize many industries. However, it also poses a serious threat to the security of future networks as current communications rely on encryption to protect data from unauthorized access, which could be broken by quantum computers in the future. This means that they could be used to attack future networks like Beyond 5G (B5G) and Sixth Generation (6G) which are expected to be much more widely used than previous generations of networks. There are a number of things that can be done to mitigate the quantum threat to future networks. One approach is to develop new encryption algorithms, Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), that are resistant to quantum computers. Another approach is to use Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to create secure keys that cannot be broken by quantum computers. This work examines the current state of quantum and post-quantum cryptography and their applications in upcoming generations of wireless networks such as 6G, and the challenges that might arise for their implementation. Additionally, a new isogeny-based post-quantum cryptographic scheme is presented. This paper aims to advance and contribute to the research and development of quantum security in future networks.