Blockchain-based security approaches for communication networks

Abstract

Blockchain technology is emerging as a powerful tool for securing modern communication networks. By leveraging a decentralized, tamper-resistant ledger, blockchain can enhance authentication, ensure data integrity, strengthen overall network security, mitigate DDoS attacks, and enable more resilient decentralized infrastructure. This paper provides a structured overview of how blockchain addresses key security challenges in communication networks. We discuss blockchain-based authentication for identity management, immutable logging for data integrity, secure network management (including public key infrastructure and messaging), and decentralized approaches to network threats like Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Real-world implementations – from IoT device authentication pilots to blockchain-driven DDoS protection platforms – are examined to illustrate these concepts. Conclusions highlight that while blockchain adds trust and robustness to networks, further research into scalability, interoperability, and integration with existing systems is crucial. We outline future directions, including consensus efficiency improvements and combining blockchain with emerging technologies, to fully realize blockchain’s potential in network security.