Securing O-RAN Equipment Using Blockchain-Based Supply Chain Verification
Ali Mehrban, Zakaria Abou El Houda, Hajar Moudoud, Bouziane Brik, Lyes Khoukhi · 2025
The Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture has enabled the integration of multi-vendor equipment, yielding a significant enhancement in the flexibility and interoperability of telecommunications networks. However, this openness has also introduced new security vulnerabilities, particularly in supply chain integrity. Malicious actors may exploit weaknesses at various stages of production, distribution, or integration, leading to critical threats such as data tampering, unauthorized access, and denial-of-service (DOS) attacks. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a novel blockchain-based framework designed to secure the O-RAN supply chain. The proposed solution leverages a private permissioned blockchain ledger and cryptographic firmware authentication to ensure the integrity and authenticity of network equipment throughout its lifecycle. Specifically, the framework consists of: (1) a decentralized architecture integrating blockchain network components, equipment node validators, and secure firmware authentication mechanisms; and (2) a consensus-based verification model to enhance trust and transparency within the supply chain. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the first approaches to use blockchain for O-RAN supply chain security, and also addressing emerging security threats in a scalable and tamper-resistant manner. Experimental validation and security assessments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework in mitigating supply chain risks, making it a promising solution for ensuring trust and robustness in next-generation O-RAN ecosystems.