@Article{cmes.2024.052394,
AUTHOR = {Heejae Park, Tri-Hai Nguyen, Laihyuk Park},
TITLE = {An Investigation on Open-RAN Specifications: Use Cases, Security Threats, Requirements, Discussions},
JOURNAL = {Computer Modeling in Engineering \& Sciences},
VOLUME = {141},
YEAR = {2024},
NUMBER = {1},
PAGES = {13--41},
URL = {http://www.techscience.com/CMES/v141n1/57703},
ISSN = {1526-1506},
ABSTRACT = {The emergence of various technologies such as terahertz communications, Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), and AI-powered communication services will burden network operators with rising infrastructure costs. Recently, the Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) has been introduced as a solution for growing financial and operational burdens in Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G networks. O-RAN promotes openness and intelligence to overcome the limitations of traditional RANs. By disaggregating conventional Base Band Units (BBUs) into O-RAN Distributed Units (O-DU) and O-RAN Centralized Units (O-CU), O-RAN offers greater flexibility for upgrades and network automation. However, this openness introduces new security challenges compared to traditional RANs. Many existing studies overlook these security requirements of the O-RAN networks. To gain deeper insights into the O-RAN system and security, this paper first provides an overview of the general O-RAN architecture and its diverse use cases relevant to B5G and 6G applications. We then delve into specifications of O-RAN security threats and requirements, aiming to mitigate security vulnerabilities effectively. By providing a comprehensive understanding of O-RAN architecture, use cases, and security considerations, this work serves as a valuable resource for future research in O-RAN and its security.},
DOI = {10.32604/cmes.2024.052394}
}