This thesis explores the development and validation of advanced Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) algorithms for detecting Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks within 5th Generation (5G) telecommunications networks. As 5G technologies expand, the vulnerability of these networks to cyber threats that compromise service integrity increases, necessitating robust detection mechanisms. The primary aim of this research is to develop and validate ML and DL algorithms that effectively detect DDoS attacks within 5G telecommunications networks. These algorithms will leverage real-time data processing to enhance network security protocols and improve resilience against cyber threats. A robust simulated environment using free 5GC and UERANSIM was established to mimic the complex dynamics of 5G networks. This facilitated the controlled testing of various ML and DL models under both normal and attack conditions. The models developed and tested include Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformer (BERT), Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM), Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), a Custom Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Random Forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and XGBoost. The ensemble model combining Random Forest and XGBoost showed superior performance, making it suitable for the dynamic 5G environment. However, the study also highlights the complications of ensemble models, such as increased computational complexity and resource demands, which may limit their practicality in resource-constrained settings. This thesis addresses a critical research gap by evaluating modern DL techniques, traditional ML models, and ensemble methods within a simulated 5G environment. This comparative analysis helps identify the most effective approach for real-time DDoS detection, balancing accuracy, complexity, and resource efficiency. The findings indicate that the tailored ML, DL and Ensemble models developed are highly effective in detecting DDoS attacks, demonstrating high accuracy and efficiency in real-time threat detection. This highlights the potential for these models to be adapted for real-world applications in modern telecommunications infrastructures. In conclusion, this thesis contributes substantially to the field of cybersecurity in 5G networks by demonstrating that ML and DL models, developed and tested in a sophisticated simulated environment, can significantly enhance network security protocols. These models offer promising approaches to securing emerging telecommunications infrastructures against continuously evolving cyber threats, thus supporting the stability and reliability of 5G networks globally.