Open RAN, otherwise referred to as ORAN, has been a real game-changer in the telecommunication industry in the last decade. It is vital for allowing modular architecture coupled with open interfaces.
The best thing about radio access network disaggregation is that it reduces costs for operators while allowing faster innovation. Furthermore, it allows users to optimize the radio access network’s performance.
Having all these things in mind, we will take a look at the most common misconception about ORAN security. As a cherry on the cake, we will provide a few suggestions as to how you can tackle these issues.
Understanding ORAN Security
An open radio access network relies on hardware and software parts from various vendors. The problem with that is that each component requires specific settings, which increases the risk of misconfiguration.
Having that in mind, the best way to set the basis for a secure network is by simply avoiding vendor lock-ins. You should assign network experts to monitor the situation by relying on open interfaces. That way, you can quickly detect potential issues and respond with appropriate measures. Detecting anomalies quickly is essential for ensuring smooth network performance.
Attack Sufrace Issues
Another major concern has to do with the attack surface. The fact that we’re using an open interface between the distributed and radio units, as well as the distributed and central unit, means there are a lot of holes we have to patch.
Luckily, ORAN architecture gives us access to dominant security measures, especially when compared to single-vendor systems. This type of architecture is much more modular while providing enhanced visibility.
Although the addition of extra interfaces might provide additional access points, these interfaces are present in non-open radio access network implementations. So, you won’t have to worry about specific requirements for security implementations.
On top of all that, several third-party providers are able to test each entry point within an ORAN solution. These experts can assess risks for the entire system much quicker than a single vendor can.
Role of Regulatory Agencies
The US government has a vital role in enhancing the security of Open RANs. By introducing various policies and regulations, it ensures each provider works within the optimal limits. In other words, you have to follow regulatory bodies’ recommended operations, design, and deployment to cover for most common security risks.
These are some of the most important institutions that control the use and security of ORAN providers:
-
ORAN Working Group 11
This regulatory body was previously known under the name Security Focus Group. Its main role is to ensure each organization abides by optimal security requirements for their ORANs.
They are looking to make Open RANs as secure as possible, thus protecting end users. Each year, they make three releases across four specifications.
-
National Institute of Standards and Technology
The NIST has comprehensive guidelines meant to streamline your cybersecurity implementation. Among other things, they provide standards for ORAN systems, regulating Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations as well as Cybersecurity Framework.
-
Federal Communications Commision
FCC or Federal Communications Commision publishes guidelines from time to time. These documents are meant to assist companies in tackling potential wireless network issues. Among other things, the guidelines cover intrusion detection, access controls, and encryption topics.
-
European Union Agency for Cybersecurity
The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity, or simply ENISA, is the main cybersecurity body in the EU. Its guidelines put special emphasis on 5G network security and ORAN systems. The documents provide instructions that would enhance your company’s incident response, threat intelligence, and security monitoring.
Security Through Optimized Design
More and more companies are optimizing their ORAN product design so it provides maximum security from the get-go. Vendors are introducing various security measures and advanced controls into their infrastructure so that you can detect potential threats as soon as possible.
-
Supply Chain
Companies that are creating Open RAN solutions have introduced unique measures that would enhance the supply chain visibility. These vendors disclose the names of their sub-suppliers and all involved partners to achieve maximum transparency.
Furthermore, businesses are using SBOM (Software Bill of Materials) to list all components used in their software. Another security measure is listing supply chain dependencies, which reduces the risks of potential attacks.
-
Operator Deployement
To ensure full security during deployment, operators introduce unique end-to-end security policies and operational models. With this methodology, companies are able to properly monitor and respond to any issues affecting their ORAN network components, hardware, software, and application infrastructure.
Building Future Networks
When designing their ORAN solutions, companies are trying their best to introduce interoperable interfaces. This is vital for preventing potential vendor lock-ins. High flexibility is essential for CSPs, as it allows them to choose their vendors.
While companies have solved numerous issues pertaining to ORAN, there are still a few areas that can be improved. One of the biggest issues pertains to the use of Kubernetes and containers for cloud deployment.
Transferring processes and systems on the cloud introduces additional risk factors. Within this environment, hackers gain access through compromised software and credentials, as well as vulnerable servers. After a breach, an attacker is able to move the container to the Kubernetes cluster, which ultimately leads to the discovery of new services.
As a way to tackle these cloud-related problems, providers usually introduce the best security practices. Among other things, stakeholders must work together to enhance the ORAN security and address threats as soon as they appear.
Through their enormous scalability and agility, Open RAN systems can be deployed in the shortest time possible. Operators are always on the lookout for new methods that would reduce their OPEX and CAPEX, thus enhancing user experience.
Conclusion
Like many modern systems, ORANs are constantly threatened by outside elements. The problem is especially noticeable when a radio access network is cloud-based. Luckily, you can mitigate most of these threats by simply adhering to the best policies and security guidelines provided by regulatory bodies.
