Securing the 5G-Driven Transformation of IoT 

By Peter Adel, Regional Director at NETSCOUT

The introduction of 5G technology has transformed the Internet of Things (IoT) sector by significantly improving how devices connect and operate. With its high-speed data transfer, minimal delays, and efficient use of spectrum, 5G is  projected to increase IoT connections by 45% by 2025 in the UAE. This represents a significant evolution of how devices interact and function within the IoT network, ushering in a new era of innovation and efficiency in several sectors.

The Growing Importance of 5G in IoT

Recent research shows a 7% year-over-year growth in the cellular IoT market during the first quarter of 2024, highlighting the increasing reliance on and expansion of IoT technologies. As the demand for IoT devices and applications continues to rise, 5G’s capabilities are becoming essential in supporting these advancements. While 4G long term evolution (LTE) has traditionally facilitated IoT connectivity, 5G offers significant enhancements that are set to redefine the landscape.

How 5G Enhances IoT Connectivity

5G technology brings several key benefits that enhance IoT connectivity. One of the most significant advantages is its ability to provide high-speed data transfer. This capability is crucial for handling the massive volumes of data generated by IoT devices. 5G networks can transmit data up to ten times faster than 4G, which is important for applications requiring real-time data processing and large-scale data transfers.

Another major benefit is 5G’s reduced latency, which is less than 10 milliseconds compared to 20-30 milliseconds for 4G. This reduction means that IoT devices can send and receive data with minimal delay, which is vital for applications needing immediate feedback, such as autonomous vehicles, remote surgeries, and real-time industrial monitoring. Also, 5G’s improved spectrum efficiency allows it to handle more devices per square kilometre, supporting up to 1 million devices per square kilometre. This is crucial for addressing the growing need for dense IoT deployments in urban environments and large-scale industrial applications.

Moreover, 5G introduces the concept of network slicing, which enables the creation of virtual networks tailored to specific applications or industries. This capability allows for optimised performance and improved quality of service by allocating network resources based on the unique requirements of different IoT use cases.

Challenges in Integrating 5G with IoT

Despite its advantages, integrating 5G with IoT presents several challenges. The proliferation of IoT devices increases the potential for cybersecurity threats, necessitating secure communications through robust encryption and regular software updates. Extending 5G infrastructure to rural and less populated areas involves significant investment, with the costs associated with deploying 5G base stations and related infrastructure being substantial. Transitioning to 5G may require upgrading existing devices or developing new ones, which can be a costly endeavour for organisations, especially if their current devices are not 5G-compatible. Battery-operated IoT devices may experience higher power consumption with 5G compared to 4G, making energy efficiency a crucial consideration. Additionally, 5G networks use higher-frequency millimetre waves, which can result in coverage gaps, particularly in remote or rural areas, requiring solutions to ensure comprehensive coverage.

To secure IoT networks with 5G, organisations should use strong encryption to protect data and regularly update software to fix vulnerabilities. They must also implement strong authentication methods, like multi-factor authentication, to ensure only authorised users and devices have access. Network segmentation can also help contain breaches and protect critical systems, while  continuous monitoring and real-time threat detection are essential for quickly identifying and addressing security issues.

Securing the 5G-Driven Future of IoT

Looking ahead, 5G promises to secure the future of IoT connectivity, driving advancements in data transfer speed, device interaction, and network performance. Its ability to support high-speed data transfer, reduced latency, and massive device densities will enhance IoT applications across various domains, from smart cities and healthcare to industrial automation and transportation. As IoT devices evolve to meet the demands of 5G, they will need solutions that can empower communications service providers (CSPs) to achieve end-through-end visibility for any IoT device performance. The ongoing development and integration of 5G technology will be crucial in shaping the future of IoT and unlocking new possibilities for innovation and efficiency.