New TSN-MACsec IP Core For Secure Data Transmission In 5G/6G Communication Networks

Reliability and security in broadband communication networks (5G/6G) are crucial for meeting the challenges of the digital future. Together with aconnic AG, Fraunhofer IPMS has developed an innovative IP core as part of the “RealSec5G” project, which combines the advantages of a MACsec IP core with those of a Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) IP core. This is the first time that the aspects of functional safety and data security in data transmission, which were usually considered separately, have been combined.

Project “RealSec5G” sets new standards in communication networks by promoting the integration of cyber security and data security. The aim was to meet the requirements of functional safety and data security in a cost-effective, easy-to-integrate system. By combining TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) functionalities and linespeed encryption, a system was developed that combines real-time capability and redundancy. Fraunhofer IPMS has worked together with its practical partner aconnic to combine both security aspects for greater data protection and reliability. A hardware/software co-design approach was pursued, whereby a demonstrator was built using standard components to evaluate the overall system.

New TSN MACsec IP core successfully tested
The integration of the MACsec standard in TSN environments makes it possible to transmit critical data streams in a timely manner and protect them from manipulation and unauthorized access. As part of the project, two existing IP cores for TSN and MACsec were successfully combined and tested. A practical, cost-effective FPGA platform (off-the-shelf module) was developed which can support high data rates in the multigigabit range. Tests under realistic conditions, including simulated attack scenarios, showed no negative impact on timestamps or transmission speed. Furthermore, they proved a correct and authenticated data transmission.

Further applications for broad network structures
The integration of MACsec in TSN environments now enables companies and organizations to not only transmit critical data streams in a timely manner, but also to protect them from unauthorized access and manipulation. Thanks to the positive results of the project, further promising fields of application are now in reach for the involved project partners. In addition to the focused areas of traffic, transportation and energy, the results also establish new opportunities in network structures for administration, healthcare, information technology and telecommunications. Furthermore, the results can be transferred to other industrial communication solutions as part of subsequent collaborations. A possible follow-up topic can be the long-term combination of the results with quantum technologies, which will influence future security requirements with regard to post-quantum cryptography.

Dr. Alexander Noack, Division Director at Fraunhofer IPMS, states: “By combining the two Ethernet IP core standards TSN and MACsec, we have succeeded in efficiently combining functional security and data security. As a result, we are developing the basis for secure communication in 5G/6G networks and the future requirements regarding security requirements for post-quantum encryption.”

The final meeting for the RealSec5G project will take place on April 30, 2025.

About TSN
TSN (Time Sensitive Networking) is a communication standard for Ethernet communication with real-time synchronization, redundancy and transmission guarantees. The focus lies on functional security with the lowest possible susceptibility to errors.

About MACsec
MACsec is an international security standard for the protection of Ethernet-based networks. It ensures the confidentiality and integrity of communication, important aspects of data security for both open and closed networks. MACsec uses cryptographic techniques to ensure that the transmitted information cannot be manipulated or eavesdropped on.

About Fraunhofer IPMS
The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS stands for applied research and development in the fields of Smart Industrial Solutions, Bio and Health, Mobility as well as Green and Sustainable Microelectronics. Research focuses on electronic, mechanical and optical components and their integration into miniaturized devices and systems. The range of services extends from design and product development to pilot production in its own laboratories and clean rooms.

As an expert in secure data communication solutions, the Business Unit of Data Communication and Computing (DCC) develops innovative technologies in the future-oriented fields of IP cores, Li-Fi (light-based data transmission) and quantum technologies. These developments pave the way for new and secure communication solutions in key industries such as mobility, telecommunications, industrial automation and energy supply.

About aconnic AG
aconnic develops hardware and software for devices, systems, complete networks and services that help communications service providers and large enterprises nationwide and international gigabit networks and reduce energy consumption. and reduce energy consumption. With more than 15 million systems installed in 40 countries, the company has a proven track record in the telecommunications industry for highly reliable and secure gigabit networks for fixed and mobile 5G networks, software-defined and virtualized network architectures, cloud and edge computing, enterprise connectivity and Internet of Things.