Examples disclosed herein provide systems, methods, and software for communication using Common Public Radio Interface. In one example, a system for CPRI communication includes a radio equipment control system configured to generate a timing security flag for a basic frame, insert the security flag into the basic frame, and initiate transfer of the basic frame to a radio equipment system. The radio equipment system is further configured to receive the basic frame, identify validity of the timing security flag, and upon validation, update timing on the radio equipment.