Analysis of an Architecture for Integrated Sensing and Communication in 5G OpenRAN

2025/09/21 by Daniel Lindenschmitt, Lindenschmitt, Daniel, Jung, Tobias +8
Computer Science · Engineering · #Advanced Wireless Communication Technologies #Antenna Design and Optimization #Energy Efficient Wireless Sensor Networks #FOS: Computer and information sciences #Networking and Internet Architecture (cs.NI)

paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2509.16917

openalex publication_date 2025/09/21 · openalex created_date 2025/10/16 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28

Abstract

This paper analyzes the functional requirements and architectural considerations for Integrated Sensing and Communication ( ISAC) in a 5G Open Radio Access Network (OpenRAN) environment, with emphasis on secure and modular deployment. Focusing on a mono-static, half-duplex sensing approach, it evaluates radar setup options, signal types, and processing placement within the Radio Access Network ( RAN), considering performance and security implications. The proposed architecture minimizes hardware modifications by leveraging sniffer Radio Units (RU s) and existing OpenRAN fronthaul interfaces, while protecting sensitive In-phase and Quadrature (I/Q) data and control traffic against potential attacks. Security threats, such as passive sensing, spoofing, and privacy violations, are mapped to mitigation strategies within the OpenRAN framework. The result is a deployment blueprint applicable to both Public Land Mobile Networks ( PLMNs) and Non-Public Networks (NPNs), supporting future 6G ISAC capabilities in a standards-compliant manner.

Citations

• Towards Nomadic 6G Communication Networks: Implications on Architecture, Standardization, and Regulatory Aspects
• Towards an AI/ML-driven SMO Framework in O-RAN: Scenarios, Solutions, and Challenges
• Nomadic Non-Public Networks for 6G: Use Cases and Key Performance Indicators
• A Comprehensive Tutorial and Survey of O-RAN: Exploring Slicing-aware Architecture, Deployment Options, Use Cases, and Challenges
• Unprotected 4G/5G Control Procedures at Low Layers Considered Dangerous
• 6G Integrated Sensing and Communication: From Vision to Realization
• False Target Detection in OFDM-based Joint RADAR-Communication Systems
• Full Duplex Massive MIMO Architectures: Recent Advances, Applications, and Future Directions

Related

• Integrating Communication, Sensing, and Security: Progress and Prospects of PLS in ISAC Systems
• RIS-based Physical Layer Security for Integrated Sensing and Communication: A Comprehensive Survey
• Towards Multi-Functional 6G Wireless Networks: Integrating Sensing, Communication and Security
• Integrated Sensing and Communications: Towards Dual-functional Wireless Networks for 6G and Beyond
• Poster: Developing an O-RAN Security Test Lab