6G • Security
Quantum-Resistant 6G Core (SBA-PQC)
Post-Quantum Cryptographic Service-Based Core Network
Core network infrastructure securing all internal REST/gRPC microservice interfaces using NIST quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms.
Technical Explanation
In 5G, internal core network functions (AMF, SMF, UDM, PCF) communicate over TLS/mTLS utilizing classical RSA or Elliptic Curve (ECDHE) keys. A compromised internal proxy or quantum eavesdropper could decrypt all subscriber secrets. The Quantum-Resistant 6G Core implements post-quantum hybrid TLS 1.3 tunnels across all service-based interfaces, combining classical cryptography with lattice-based Kyber (ML-KEM) key exchange to protect internal core signaling against quantum interceptors.
Key Functions
- Protects internal 6G Core microservice communications against quantum eavesdropping
- Implements post-quantum hybrid TLS 1.3 across all service-based interfaces
- Utilizes NIST FIPS 203 (ML-KEM) and FIPS 204 (ML-DSA) for microservice mTLS
- Secures inter-operator roaming proxies (SEPP) against store-now-decrypt-later attacks
Specifications
3GPP TS 33.501 SA3 PQC Profile, NIST FIPS 203/204/205, IETF PQC-TLS
Interfaces
6GC Service-Based Interface (SBI)N32 Roaming InterfacemTLS Transport
Related 6G Concepts
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