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.
