On using Blockchain in beyond 5G: Roaming Improvements

The deployment of fifth generation (5G) cellular network technology all around the globe has sparked a new wave of interest in the ability of blockchain to automate and optimize different networking use cases. Such examples are the existing roaming models, which require communication between the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) when a device has to be authorized by a different MNO than its own. This communication may lead to data privacy concerns and poor service quality due to delays in data transfer. This paper presents a blockchain-based roaming subscriber authentication and registration system for MNOs that uses smart contracts to deliver efficient roaming services. This system establishes dynamic and automatic agreements between MNOs, greatly lowering communication latency and maintaining security and privacy during message exchange.