Towards Quantum-Resilient Log Integrity in 5G/6G Mobile Network Protocol Analysis

Corresponding author: Ramat Yusuf Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. Towards Quantum-Resilient Log Integrity in 5G/6G Mobile Network Protocol Analysis Ramat Yusuf * and Ibrahim Abdul Abdulrahman Independent researcher. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 Publication history: Received on 10 August 2025; revised on 23 September 2025; accepted on 26 September 2025 Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/gjeta.2025.24.3.0280 Abstract As 5G networks mature and 6G technologies emerge, the integrity of log data becomes increasingly critical for network security, forensic analysis, and regulatory compliance. The advent of quantum computing poses unprecedented threats to current cryptographic mechanisms protecting log integrity in mobile network infrastructures. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of quantum threats to existing log integrity systems and proposes a novel quantum-resilient framework for maintaining tamper-evident logging in 5G/6G networks. We examine post-quantum cryptographic solutions, including lattice-based algorithms, blockchain integration, and hybrid approaches combining traditional and quantum-safe mechanisms. Our framework addresses key challenges including forward security, crash recovery, and real-time performance requirements while maintaining compatibility with existing 5G/6G protocol stacks. Through theoretical analysis and performance evaluation, we demonstrate that quantum-resilient log integrity can be achieved without compromising network performance, providing a foundation for secure next-generation mobile communications. Keywords: Quantum Cryptography; Log Integrity; 5G/6G Networks; Post-Quantum Cryptography; Tamper-Evident Logging; Network Security 1. Introduction The evolution of mobile networks from 5G to 6G represents a paradigm shift in telecommunications, characterized by unprecedented data volumes, ultra-low latency requirements, and massive device connectivity. Central to these advanced networks is the critical need for comprehensive logging and monitoring systems that ensure network integrity, support forensic investigations, and maintain regulatory compliance (Buzhin et al., 2022). However, the emergence of quantum computing technologies presents a fundamental threat to the cryptographic foundations underlying current log integrity mechanisms. Traditional cryptographic approaches, including RSA, ECDSA, and current symmetric encryption schemes, face potential compromise from quantum algorithms such as Shor's and Grover's algorithms. This quantum threat necessitates a fundamental rethinking of how log integrity is maintained in next-generation mobile networks (Chamola et al., 2021). The challenge becomes particularly acute in 5G/6G environments where logs must be protected not only during storage but also during real-time transmission across complex network topologies involving edge computing, cloud infrastructures, and heterogeneous access technologies. This paper addresses the critical gap between current log integrity mechanisms and the quantum-resilient requirements of future mobile networks. We propose a comprehensive framework that integrates post-quantum Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 392 cryptographic algorithms with innovative approaches including blockchain technology, zero-knowledge proofs, and novel tamper-evident logging schemes specifically designed for 5G/6G architectures. 1.1. Research Contributions 1.1.1. Our primary contributions include • Comprehensive threat analysis of quantum computing impacts on current 5G/6G log integrity systems. • Novel quantum-resilient framework integrating post-quantum cryptography with blockchain-based tamper-evident logging. • Performance optimization strategies for real-time log processing in resource-constrained 5G/6G environments. • Implementation guidelines for transitioning existing networks to quantum-safe log integrity mechanisms. • Future research directions for quantum-safe logging in emerging 6G technologies 2. Background and Related Work 2.1. Current State of 5G/6G Log Integrity The complexity of 5G networks, with their service-based architecture (SBA) and network function virtualization (NFV), generates massive volumes of log data across multiple network functions. These logs are essential for network optimization, security monitoring, and forensic analysis (Khan et al., 2016). Current log integrity mechanisms rely primarily on conventional cryptographic hash functions, digital signatures, and centralized logging infrastructures. Recent research has highlighted significant vulnerabilities in existing approaches. Manral et al. (2019) identified key challenges in cloud forensics that directly impact 5G network logging, including data integrity verification, chain of custody maintenance, and cross-jurisdictional evidence handling. These challenges become more complex when considering the distributed nature of 5G/6G networks and the integration of edge computing resources. 2.2. Quantum Threats to Cryptographic Systems The quantum computing threat timeline suggests that cryptographically relevant quantum computers may emerge within the next 10-15 years, coinciding with the full deployment of 6G networks. Mehic et al. (2024) provide a comprehensive survey of quantum cryptography in 5G networks, highlighting both threats and opportunities. The primary quantum threats include: • Shor's Algorithm: Capable of efficiently factoring large integers and computing discrete logarithms, threatening RSA and elliptic curve cryptography. • Grover's Algorithm: Providing quadratic speedup for searching unsorted databases, effectively halving the security level of symmetric cryptographic primitives. • Quantum Period Finding: Extending Shor's algorithm to additional mathematical problems underlying current cryptographic systems 2.3. Post-Quantum Cryptographic Approaches The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has standardized several post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, with lattice-based approaches showing particular promise for mobile network applications. Asif (2021) provides a comprehensive survey of lattice-based algorithms for IoT applications, which directly applies to the massive IoT connectivity requirements of 5G/6G networks. Key post-quantum cryptographic families include • Lattice-based cryptography: Including Learning with Errors (LWE) and Ring-LWE variants. • Code-based cryptography: Utilizing error-correcting codes for encryption and signatures. • Multivariate cryptography: Based on solving systems of multivariate polynomial equations. • Hash-based signatures: Providing quantum-resistant digital signature schemes. Recent work by Khan et al. (2025) demonstrates the practical implementation of ML-KEM (Kyber) for post-quantum key exchange in 5G networks, showing promising results for real-world deployment. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 393 3. Quantum Threats to Current Log Integrity Systems 3.1. Vulnerability Assessment Current 5G/6G log integrity mechanisms face multiple quantum threats that compromise their long-term security guarantees. Table 1 summarizes the primary vulnerabilities and their quantum attack vectors. Table 1 Quantum Threats to Current Log Integrity Mechanisms Mechanism Current Algorithm Quantum Threat Impact Level Timeline Digital Signatures RSA-2048, ECDSA-256 Shor's Algorithm Critical 10-15 years Hash Functions SHA-256, SHA-3 Grover's Algorithm Moderate 15-20 years Symmetric Encryption AES-128, AES-256 Grover's Algorithm Low-Moderate 15-20 years Key Exchange ECDH, RSA-KEM Shor's Algorithm Critical 10-15 years Timestamp Protocols RFC 3161 TSA Hybrid Attack High 12-18 years The critical timeline for addressing these vulnerabilities aligns with 6G deployment schedules, making immediate action necessary for ensuring long-term security. 3.2. Attack Scenarios in 5G/6G Environments Quantum attacks on log integrity systems in 5G/6G networks present unique challenges due to the distributed and heterogeneous nature of these infrastructures. We identify several critical attack scenarios: • Scenario 1: Retroactive Log Tampering Quantum computers could potentially break the cryptographic signatures protecting historical log entries, allowing adversaries to modify past records without detection. This poses particular risks for forensic investigations and regulatory compliance. • Scenario 2: Real-time Log Injection Compromised key exchange mechanisms could enable real-time injection of malicious log entries that appear cryptographically valid, corrupting ongoing network monitoring and incident response capabilities. • Scenario 3: Cross-Domain Log Forgery The interconnected nature of 5G/6G networks across multiple administrative domains creates opportunities for sophisticated forgery attacks that exploit quantumvulnerable inter-domain authentication mechanisms. 3.3. Impact Analysis The impact of quantum attacks on log integrity extends beyond technical concerns to include: • Regulatory Compliance: Failure to maintain verifiable log integrity could result in regulatory violations and financial penalties. • Forensic Validity: Compromised logs cannot serve as admissible evidence in legal proceedings. • Network Trust: Loss of log integrity undermines the trustworthiness of entire network infrastructures. • Operational Security: Inability to distinguish legitimate from malicious network activities 4. Post-Quantum Cryptographic Solutions for Log Integrity 4.1. Lattice-Based Approaches Lattice-based cryptography represents the most mature post-quantum approach for securing log integrity in 5G/6G networks. The fundamental security relies on well-studied hard problems such as Learning With Errors (LWE) and its variants. Scalise et al. (2024) demonstrate practical applications of post-quantum cryptography in securing 5G/6G core networks, providing a foundation for extending these approaches to log integrity systems. Key advantages of lattice-based solutions include • Strong security guarantees based on worst-case hardness assumptions. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 394 • Efficiency suitable for real-time 5G/6G operations. • Versatility supporting both encryption and digital signature requirements. • Standardization through NIST-approved algorithms like CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium. 4.2. Hybrid Cryptographic Schemes Given the transition period required for full post-quantum deployment, hybrid schemes combining classical and postquantum algorithms provide immediate security benefits while maintaining backward compatibility. Hanna et al. (2024) present practical integration of post-quantum TLS into 5G control plane operations, demonstrating the feasibility of hybrid approaches. A typical hybrid log integrity scheme might combine • Classical ECDSA signatures for immediate compatibility. • Post-quantum Dilithium signatures for quantum resistance. • Cryptographic binding ensuring that both signatures must be valid 4.3. Blockchain-Based Tamper-Evident Logging Blockchain technology offers complementary benefits for quantum-resilient log integrity by providing distributed consensus mechanisms that remain secure even if individual cryptographic primitives are compromised. Wang et al. (2021) explore blockchain-enabled wireless communications paradigms that directly apply to 6G network architectures. Recent advances in blockchain-based logging include • SealFS Framework: Soriano-Salvador and Guardiola-Múzquiz (2021) introduce storage-based tamper-evident logging, later enhanced in SealFSv2 (Guardiola-Múzquizand Soriano-Salvador, 2023) with ratcheting schemes for improved security. • Quantum-Safe Blockchain Integration: Li et al. (2024) present a secure and efficient log storage framework combining blockchain with post-quantum cryptographic primitives, addressing both current and future quantum threats. • Decentralized Solutions: Morillo Reina and Mateo Sanguino (2025) propose decentralized blockchain solutions specifically designed for tamper-proof logging events in distributed network environments. 5. Quantum-resilient log integrity framework 5.1. Framework Architecture Our proposed quantum-resilient log integrity framework integrates multiple security layers to provide comprehensive protection against both classical and quantum threats. Figure 1 illustrates the overall architecture. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 395 Figure 1 Quantum-Resilient Log Integrity Framework Architecture The framework operates across four distinct layers • Network Function Layer: Interfaces with existing 5G/6G network functions to collect log data without disrupting normal operations. • Log Collection Layer: Implements categorized log collection based on criticality, timing requirements, and processing needs. • Quantum-Resilient Processing Layer: Applies post-quantum cryptographic operations, blockchain integration, and zero-knowledge proof generation. • Storage Layer: Provides distributed storage across local, edge, and cloud resources with appropriate security controls. 5.2. Post-Quantum Signature Scheme Integration The framework incorporates multiple post-quantum signature schemes to provide robust protection against quantum attacks while maintaining operational efficiency. Table 2 compares the performance characteristics of different postquantum signature algorithms for 5G/6G log integrity applications. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 396 Table 2 Post-Quantum Signature Algorithm Performance Comparison Algorithm Key Size (bytes) SignatureSize (bytes) Sign Time (ms) Verify Time (ms) Security Level CRYSTALSDilithium2 1,312 2,420 0.158 0.042 NIST Level 2 CRYSTALSDilithium3 1,952 3,293 0.251 0.063 NIST Level 3 CRYSTALSDilithium5 2,592 4,595 0.471 0.112 NIST Level 5 FALCON-512 897 690 1.423 0.156 NIST Level 1 FALCON-1024 1,793 1,330 3.012 0.298 NIST Level 5 SPHINCS+-128f 32 17,088 12.3 0.245 NIST Level 1 SPHINCS+-256f 64 49,856 51.2 0.523 NIST Level 5 Performance measurements based on optimized implementations on Intel Core i7-10700K @ 3.8GHz 5.3. Blockchain Integration Strategy The framework leverages blockchain technology to provide additional tamper resistance and distributed consensus for critical log entries. Our approach builds upon the work of Haddad (2024), who demonstrates blockchain-based anonymous handover protocols for 5G networks, and Lakshmi (2024), who presents blockchain-based routing protocols for secure data transmission. Key components of the blockchain integration include • Quantum-Safe Hash Functions: Implementation of post-quantum hash functions resistant to Grover's algorithm. • Consensus Mechanisms: Adaptation of existing consensus algorithms for 5G/6G network requirements. • Smart Contract Verification: Automated verification of log integrity constraints through quantum-safe smart contracts. • Cross-Chain Interoperability: Support for multiple blockchain networks to prevent single points of failure 5.4. Forward Security and Crash Recovery Building upon the work of Blass and Noubir (2024) on forward security with crash recovery for secure logs, our framework implements advanced forward security mechanisms specifically designed for 5G/6G environments. Forward security ensures that even if current cryptographic keys are compromised, historical log entries remain protected. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 397 Figure 2 Forward Security Key Evolution Mechanism The key evolution mechanism ensures that • Keys are derived using one-way functions preventing backward computation. • Each log entry is signed with a unique key that cannot be regenerated. • Crash recovery mechanisms allow system restoration without compromising security. • Performance overhead remains minimal for real-time 5G/6G operations 5.5. Zero-Knowledge Proof Integration To address privacy concerns while maintaining log integrity, our framework incorporates zero-knowledge proofs that allow verification of log properties without revealing sensitive information. This approach is particularly relevant for 5G/6G networks where logs may contain personally identifiable information or commercially sensitive data. Applications of zero-knowledge proofs include • Compliance Verification: Proving that logs meet regulatory requirements without exposing content. • Audit Trails: Demonstrating the existence of specific events without revealing related information. • Cross-Domain Verification: Enabling log verification across organizational boundaries while maintaining confidentiality. • Performance Monitoring: Allowing network optimization based on log analysis without privacy compromise 6. Implementation Challenges and Solutions 6.1. Performance Optimization The computational overhead of post-quantum cryptographic operations presents significant challenges for real-time 5G/6G network operations. Our framework addresses these challenges through several optimization strategies: • Hierarchical Processing: Critical logs receive immediate post-quantum protection, while less critical logs are processed in batch mode to reduce computational load. • Hardware Acceleration: Integration with specialized cryptographic processors and emerging quantum-safe hardware security modules. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 398 • Algorithm Selection: Dynamic selection of post-quantum algorithms based on network conditions, device capabilities, and security requirements. 6.2. Interoperability Considerations The framework must maintain compatibility with existing 5G networks while preparing for 6G deployment. This requires careful consideration of: • Protocol Compatibility: Ensuring that quantum-resilient log integrity mechanisms do not interfere with existing 5G protocols. • Legacy System Integration: Providing bridges between quantum-safe and traditional logging systems during transition periods. • Standard Compliance: Adhering to emerging standards for post-quantum cryptography in telecommunications 6.3. Resource Management 5G/6G networks operate under strict resource constraints, particularly at the edge where computational and storage resources are limited. Our framework addresses these constraints through: • Adaptive Resource Allocation: Dynamic adjustment of cryptographic protection levels based on available resources and threat levels. • Edge-Cloud Collaboration: Intelligent distribution of cryptographic operations between edge devices and cloud resources. • Energy Efficiency: Optimization of post-quantum algorithms for energy-constrained mobile devices and IoT endpoints. 7. Performance Analysis and Evaluation 7.1. Computational Overhead Analysis To evaluate the practical feasibility of our quantum-resilient log integrity framework, we conducted comprehensive performance analysis comparing traditional and post-quantum approaches. Table 3 presents the computational overhead for different log processing scenarios. Table 3 Computational Overhead Analysis Scenario Traditional (RSA-2048) PQ-Hybrid Pure PQ (Dilithium3) Overhead Ratio Single Log Signing 2.1 ms 2.4 ms 0.251 ms 1.14x Batch Processing (1000 logs) 2.08 s 2.41 s 0.251 s 1.16x Real-time Verification 0.18 ms 0.22 ms 0.063 ms 1.22x Blockchain Integration 45.2 ms 52.1 ms 48.3 ms 1.15x Zero-Knowledge Proof Gen N/A 125.3 ms 125.3 ms N/A Measurements conducted on simulated 5G core network environment with Intel Xeon Gold 6248R processors The results demonstrate that post-quantum signature schemes can actually provide performance improvements in certain scenarios, particularly for signature generation, while maintaining acceptable overhead levels for hybrid deployments. 7.2. Storage Overhead Assessment Post-quantum cryptographic algorithms typically require larger key and signature sizes compared to traditional approaches. Figure 3 illustrates the storage overhead for different deployment scenarios. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2025, 24(03), 391-405 399 Figure 3 Storage Overhead Comparison Across Deployment Scenarios The analysis shows that while post-quantum approaches do increase storage requirements, the overhead remains manageable through compression techniques and selective application based on log criticality. 7.3. Network Performance Impact Integration of quantum-resilient log integrity mechanisms must not compromise 5G/6G network performance. Our evaluation considers key performance indicators including latency, throughput, and resource utilization. Table 4 summarizes the impact on critical network functions. Table 4 Network Performance Impact Assessment Network Function Baseline Latency With QR Framework Impact Acceptable Threshold UE Registration 45 ms 47 ms +4.4% <10% Handover 23 ms 24 ms +4.3% <15% Session Establishment 67 ms 71 ms +6.0% <10% Data Plane Setup 12 ms 13 ms +8.3% <20% Emergency Calls 89 ms 92 ms +3.4% <5% QR Framework: Quantum-Resilient Framework implementation The results indicate that the framework maintains network performance within acceptable thresholds while providing comprehensive quantum-resilient log integrity. 8. Advanced security features 8.1. Distributed Trust Architecture Traditional log integrity systems rely on centralized trust anchors that represent single points of failure. Our framework implements a distributed trust architecture that eliminates these vulnerabilities while maintaining operational efficiency.