Multi-Access Edge Computing and Security

5G campus networks in conjunction with industrial control technology enable the realization of a wide range of industrial use cases. Multi-access edge computing (MEC) plays a central role here, as it enables applications to access data from different communication systems such as 5G and WiFi.

Various open source MEC solutions in accordance with the ETSI standard are integrated into the two 5G campus networks at Fraunhofer IIS. These allow the development and testing of individual applications in an industrial environment. The use of the standardized location API enables, for example, access to the localization systems integrated in the testbed. This facilitates the rapid development and testing of initial 5G-based use cases. By using standardized multi-access edge computing solutions, the tested use cases can be transferred to other 5G campus networks without major changes.

The 5G standard offers various security mechanisms, but operators should be aware that wireless technologies are more susceptible to attacks than wired systems. Particular caution is required when integrating with industrial control technology, as there is no physical separation of IT networks.

In the PIA5 project, Fraunhofer IIS is developing a new type of security framework to provide additional security for communication between 5G and automation technology, especially M2M communication.

The following focal points are taken into account

• Specification and technical implementation of industrial use cases
• Definition and consideration of various attack scenarios
• Integration of the security solution into existing security environments, such as an existing Certification Authority (CA)
• Integration into a multi-access edge computing environment
• Integration of localization solutions
• Connection to industrial automation solutions such as OPC UA or Profinet