Master of Science in Computer Science • Computer architecture and systems study

5G Network Architecture Analysis

A systems-level analysis of 5G network architecture as a modern computing platform rather than only a radio-access technology.

Systems analyzed
5G CoreRadio Access NetworkMulti-access Edge ComputingNetwork SlicingSecuritySustainability

Project objective

Evaluate how 5G architecture balances confidentiality, integrity, availability, low latency, high bandwidth, distributed computing, virtualization, and energy use.

What I produced

  • Examined mutual authentication, key hierarchies, IAM, digital signatures, and the CIA triad in 5G.
  • Analyzed network-slicing isolation, multi-tenancy, hypervisor, API, AI, denial-of-service, and lateral-movement risks.
  • Evaluated multi-access edge computing benefits and resource-management challenges.
  • Traced architecture evolution from earlier wireless generations and considered sustainability and future development.

Key decisions

  • Treat network slices as separate security domains that require isolation and monitoring.
  • Keep latency-sensitive processing near users while retaining centralized cloud capacity for heavier workloads.
  • Protect SDN and automation APIs as critical control-plane assets.
  • Balance edge-node expansion with power scaling and shared infrastructure.
1G to 5GArchitecture evolution reviewed
Distributed edgeMEC performance and resource tradeoffs
Multiple risk layersSlices, hypervisors, APIs, IoT, and AI

Validation and analysis

  • Compared security improvements and new attack surfaces.
  • Evaluated performance, operational complexity, cost, and sustainability tradeoffs.
  • Connected historical milestones to modern virtualization and edge design.