The rapid evolution of 5G networks introduces unprecedented high-speed communication and massive connectivity, but it also intensifies security challenges. Ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data requires robust encryption mechanisms. This study evaluates the performance and overhead of Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA), and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) in 5G networks using simulation-based analysis. Metrics considered include latency (ms), throughput (%), encryption/decryption time per MB, and computational cost on UE-class hardware, providing quantitative comparison across typical 5G scenarios (high mobility eMBB, URLLC, and mMTCIoT devices).
Key findings: AES achieves low latency and high throughput for bulk data; ECC provides secure, lightweight key exchange; RSA is suitable only for session key establishment due to higher computational overhead. Overall, hybrid AES+ECC provides the best tradeoff between security and performance in realistic 5G environments.
