Various approaches for the verification of 5G networks, including the use of fingerprint-based IQ measurements for authentication and integrity monitoring, are discussed. In an example, a method of using fingerprints for authentication of network use includes: capturing in-phase and quadrature (IQ) data from a network connection between a user equipment (UE) and a 5G network; performing authentication of the network connection between the UE and the 5G network, by using a symbol of the IQ data as a random factor for the authentication; and monitoring the IQ data on an ongoing basis to verify the network connection between the UE and the 5G network. The method may also include creating a baseline IQ measurement from the IQ data when performing the authentication between the UE and the 5G network, and monitoring the IQ data by using a comparison of an ongoing IQ measurement to the baseline IQ measurement.