Abstract

As 5G networks continue to evolve and innovate, security challenges are emerging, necessitating a more rigorous assessment of their security mechanisms, particularly within core functions such as the Access and Mobility Function (AMF) and disaggregated gNodeB (gNB). 5G's virtualized architecture represents a significant increase in complexity compared to pre-4G network architectures, and its software-based architecture necessitates enhanced security. This study examines security issues within protocol design, device integration, and virtualized infrastructure, drawing on 3GPP specifications and security vulnerabilities observed in early 5G deployments. By examining the effectiveness of fundamental security measures such as encryption, integrity protection, and replay prevention, we also conduct a comprehensive and systematic assessment of 5G deployments in terms of resilience. To enhance security, this paper also explores the anomaly detection and adaptive response capabilities of automated and AI-driven threat detection systems, as well as how to enhance real-time monitoring. The goal is to address these technical vulnerabilities and practical implementation challenges systematically. The main purpose of this research is to enhance the security of 5G networks and ensure they can withstand increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.