Private 5G Networks: Navigating the Security Landscape

In today’s Digital and Connected World, the growing demand for secure, reliable, and low-latency networks in complex environments has driven significant innovations in private 5G networks. Truminds is also playing a pivotal role in this space by implementing VLAN-based traffic isolation for a US-based Private Cellular Network (PCN) solution provider. In this case study, let’s explore how Truminds is successful in delivering this solution and is meeting the unique requirements of environments needing multiple isolated network segments.

Challenge: Traffic Isolation in Complex Environments: The client required a private 5G network capable of isolating data traffic across different segments within a large, diverse environment. While the existing PCN solution supported Quality of Service (QOS) policies, it lacked the capability to segment or isolate traffic between these segments. The entire user traffic was routed through a single interface, which was insufficient for the client’s needs. Additionally, there was a need to define and control the access of User Equipment (UEs) based on the network to which they were connected.

Solution: Truminds delivered a cost-effective and scalable solution by leveraging Virtual LANs (VLANs). This approach enabled the creation of multiple logical network segments that could isolate traffic while utilizing the same physical network adapter. The solution met the client’s network segmentation requirements without needing additional hardware, offering both flexibility and scalability. A UE profiling mechanism was also introduced, allowing the end operator to define and map UEs to these VLANs as required, ensuring that each UE had controlled access within its assigned VLAN, with the flexibility for the operator to update the UE profile at any time.

Achievements - Enhanced Security and Scalability: One of the significant achievements of this project was its successful application in various scenarios where traffic isolation and security were critical. The ability to create distinct user groups and data profiles for different segments ensured secure traffic isolation and allowed the network to scale as needed. The project demonstrated Truminds' ability to innovate and deliver tailored solutions for complex environments by leveraging advanced technologies such as Vector Packet Processing (VPP) and Data Plane Development Kit (DPDK) to develop high-performance applications. Our deep expertise in networking protocols and stacks enabled us to meet the rigorous demands of our clients, ensuring successful implementation and fostering strong confidence and trust.

Initially, the key challenge was the lengthy testing cycles, which took 5-6 hours per iteration following a software update. To address this, our team automated the testing process, reducing cycle time to one-fifth of its original duration. This not only accelerated deployment times but also minimized errors, enhancing overall software reliability. This success story adds to Truminds’ growing portfolio of advanced telecommunication solutions and underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, client-specific innovations in the rapidly evolving world of private networks. This project’s complexity also required the use of state-of-the-art technologies and programming languages which Truminds has strong expertise in.

At Truminds, we recognize that automation is essential in the modern technology landscape and we are committed to expanding its use across key projects, ensuring efficient and reliable application deployment. Our future vision is to leverage our extensive expertise to assist customers in designing, deploying, and realizing end-to-end use cases in Private Cellular Networks (PCNs), enabling them to fully benefit from the potential of these advanced networks.