Q-PROTECT: advancing the protection of 5G networks against future threats from quantum computing

Challenges

With the expected emergence of quantum computers, classical cryptographic algorithms like RSA or ECDSA will no longer be secure. This poses a critical risk for 5G networks, where communication security is essential. The main challenge of the project was to assess the feasibility of integrating post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) algorithms into a realistic 5G environment, ensuring both interoperability and operational performance.

Objectives

• Replace classical public-key algorithms with post-quantum alternatives in critical 5G core functions (AMF, AUSF, NRF)
• Measure impact on latency, CPU usage, and secure channel establishment
• Explore the automation of PQC-based digital certificate management
• Lay the groundwork for a quantum-safe PKI infrastructure for 5G networks

Proposed solution

A virtualized 5G network was deployed using open-source components such as Open5GS and UERANSIM, where PQC algorithms like Kyber (for key exchange) and Dilithium (for digital signatures) were integrated. Secure communications between functions were established via TLS modified with OpenSSL and liboqs, enabling evaluation of system performance under real-world conditions.