Security Through Frequency Diversity in The 5G NR Standard

Abstract

This thesis explores the use of pseudo-random frequency hopping for added security in the 5G New Radio specification. Frequency hopping makes it more difficult for an attacker to intercept, detect, or jam a wireless connection in a 5G network. Current 5G resource allocation options are examined, and the state-of-the-art literature regarding Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) frequency hopping under various channel conditions is reviewed. Computer simulations were conducted to compare the throughput performance of the frequency hopping technique vs. static resource allocation. It is shown that under certain channel conditions and power allocation schemes, the aggregate user throughput under frequency hopping is within 95% of that of static allocation, although less under more realistic power allocations, while the probabilities of intercept and detection is significantly reduced.