Integrating Wi-Fi and 5G—A unified approach for better security and performance

Author: Sachin Thakkar, Co-founder, Highway 9

As enterprises navigate the complexities of modern connectivity, the question isn’t whether to choose between Wi-Fi and 5G but how to combine and integrate their strengths for optimal performance.

Over the years, many have predicted that 4G/5G would eventually replace Wi-Fi, and vice versa. However, recent insights reveal that these technologies are most powerful when used together. A survey by ZK Research and CommScope shows that many organizations are already embracing both Wi-Fi and private 4G/5G networks to capitalise on the advantages of each.

The survey of 402 enterprises found that more than 85% have deployments of or plans for Wi-Fi, private 4G/5G and upgrades to wired networks. Specifically, 86% have already deployed or plan to deploy Wi-Fi 6/6E/7, while 92% have deployed or plan to deploy private cellular.

This strategic integration raises a critical question: how can enterprises effectively secure each network while leveraging common controls and policies? First, let’s break down the nuances of both.

Wi-Fi security

Everyone in the industry knows that Wi-Fi security has come a long way, making it a reliable choice for enterprises seeking robust network protection integrated with enterprise security architecture. Notable features include:

• Network Access Control (NAC): One of the key security controls for Wi-Fi networks is Network Access Control (NAC). This feature allows for robust user authentication methods, including multi-factor authentication (MFA), which can be tailored to the specific needs of an enterprise such as allowing authorisation based on Active Directory or LDAP. NAC provides flexibility and enables organisations to customize their security measures for enhanced protection and zoning,
• Certificate-based authentication (802.1X): Certificate-based authentication through 802.1X adds an extra layer of security by requiring devices to authenticate with a certificate before accessing the network. This approach, while difficult to implement, provides a client security mechanism safer than a password to prevent unauthorised access and ensure that only trusted devices can connect, thereby enhancing the overall security posture of the Wi-Fi network.

Private 5G security

Enterprise 5G also offers a comprehensive suite of security features designed to address many concerns associated with traditional network infrastructures. Here are some of the key benefits of 5G security:

• Advanced device authentication with SIMs/eSIMs: One of the cornerstone components of 5G security is the use of SIMs and eSIMs for device authentication. This method provides a higher level of security compared to traditional username/password methods, making it significantly harder to compromise. SIM-based authentication ensures that only authorised devices can access the network, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorised access and enhancing overall network integrity. It provides an easy-to-implement mechanism to provide secured client access with a security posture comparable to 802.1x,
• End-to-end security framework: 5G networks offer end-to-end security that includes over-the-air encryption, data protection and secure signaling. This comprehensive security framework ensures that data transmitted across the network is protected from interception and tampering. The use of over-the-air encryption further enhances the privacy and integrity of communications, safeguarding sensitive information from potential threats,
• Support for Virtual Mobile Zones (VMZ): Another significant advantage of enterprise 5G is its support for Virtual Mobile Zones (VMZ), which allow for the segmentation of network resources and local exit of traffic. This segmentation is particularly beneficial for enterprise scenarios such as dividing IT/OT networks, as it helps isolate critical systems and protect them from potential threats. By creating isolated zones, 5G can provide targeted security measures and enhance the resilience of essential infrastructure.

Integrating Wi-Fi and 5G: The key to enhanced wireless security and performance

The real power of modern wireless network technology lies in the seamless integration of Wi-Fi and 5G, leveraging their combined strengths for robust connectivity. Instead of viewing these technologies as competitors, enterprises can reap substantial benefits by merging them, especially with regard to enterprise security controls and policies.

Integrating these technologies with enterprise security systems like firewalls and SIEMs ensures consistent security measures across all network access points. This unified approach protects sensitive data and prevents unauthorised access. Additional benefits include:

• Seamless integration with MDM platforms: The integration also extends to mobile device management (MDM) platforms, which are essential for managing user devices on the network. By connecting Wi-Fi and 5G with MDM solutions, enterprises can effectively manage device access and ensure compliance with security policies. This integration enables businesses to maintain control over the devices accessing their network, reducing the risk of security breaches, controlling profiles for which type of network to connect to in a specific location and enhancing overall network security.
• Enhanced reliability and scalability: While Wi-Fi offers reliable coverage for traditional indoor environments, 5G excels in providing scalable connectivity over large areas either indoors or outside. By integrating these technologies across the entire organisation, businesses can enjoy the benefits of both, ensuring consistent security and connectivity across use cases and environments. This integration is crucial for integrating modern workloads that demand constant connectivity, such as drones, autonomous vehicles, and industrial robots. In a large-scale manufacturing business, for example, the combination of Wi-Fi for corporate workers and 5G for factory and outdoor operations ensures seamless mobility and consistent performance + security for all connected devices, enhancing productivity and reducing the risk of operational failures or security incidents.
• Adapting to complex network needs: As enterprises grow, their network needs become increasingly complex. Integrating Wi-Fi and 5G helps address these challenges by providing a scalable solution that can support a vast number of devices and use-cases without compromising coverage, cost or performance. For instance, the combination of these technologies facilitates the sharing of enterprise networks through virtual LANs (VLANs), allowing secure and segmented network access for different departments and applications in an organisation. Additionally, this integration addresses the need for full campus coverage while minimising the density of access points required for each use-case. This scalability is particularly beneficial in supply chain and logistics operations, where the ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions is crucial. A combined Wi-Fi and 5G network can provide the necessary coverage and capacity to support connected vehicles, smart warehouses and real-time tracking systems.

Building a more secure and efficient network environment

In conclusion, the integration of Wi-Fi and 5G offers enterprises a powerful solution for modern wireless connectivity demands. By combining their strengths and integrating them with enterprise security controls, businesses can build a secure, reliable, and scalable network that adapts to future needs, driving innovation and success.