Signaling Storm in O-RAN: Challenges and Research Opportunities

O-RAN enables agile network architecture through programmable disaggregated units. However, the complexity and disaggregation of O-RAN may increase the risk of security incidents. Signaling storm is one of such incidents that disrupts network services through excessive control signals, and is yet unexplored in the context of O-RAN. In this article, we provide a holistic picture of open challenges and opportunities to address signaling storms in O-RAN. Specifically, we discuss different threat models for signaling storm, and explore their applicability to O-RAN. We also survey and categorize existing detection and mitigation solutions. Finally, we provide insights on leveraging key benefits of O-RAN to address signaling storms, and conclude by outlining future directions in this area.