PETALING JAYA: A robust infrastructure with adequate spectrum allocation is essential for 5G deployment to ensure foolproof security and proper standards of its implementation, says a cybersecurity expert.
Universiti Sains Malaysia cybersecurity expert Assoc Prof Dr Selvakumar Manickam said the industry needed to agree on a set of standards that could be universally applied to 5G networks.
“Security needs to be built into the design of the network from the outset.
“It is also important to ensure that people understand the benefits of 5G technology,” he said.
Selvakumar said those with specialised knowledge of 5G technology were needed to design, deploy and maintain these networks.“Organisations can also opt to deploy private 5G networks to meet their specific needs, which offer dedicated and controlled connectivity for businesses, campuses, factories, and other specialised environments.
“Private 5G networks are a very good alternative to Wi-Fi networks, as it has much lower latency with higher speed and is not congested,” he said.
Selvakumar added that the speed, low latency, increased capacity, reliability and support provided by 5G networks could significantly enhance productivity across various industries and enable the adoption of advanced technologies.
“This allows for real-time analysis, faster decision-making and response times, as well as enhancing productivity in applications like telemedicine, augmented reality, smart manufacturing and remote monitoring,” he said.
He said 5G technology also offered consumers access to more content at much faster speeds with improved connectivity, enhanced entertainment options that deliver real-time and immersive experiences and a platform for future innovations.
Selvakumar added that as with previous network generations, 5G coverage would initially be focused on more highly populated areas.
“Then, it will be expanded progressively to cover the whole country. Whether the country will get full coverage is to be seen in the next few years.
“In fact, even 4G coverage is roughly around 95% at the moment,” he said.
