6G Wireless Networks: Vision, Requirements, Architecture, and Key Technologies

Paper

Abstract

A key enabler for the intelligent information society of 2030, 6G networks are expected to provide performance superior to 5G and satisfy emerging services and applications. In this article, we present our vision of what 6G will be and describe usage scenarios and requirements for multi-terabyte per second (Tb/s) and intelligent 6G networks. We present a large-dimensional and autonomous network architecture that integrates space, air, ground, and underwater networks to provide ubiquitous and unlimited wireless connectivity. We also discuss artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning [1], [2] for autonomous networks and innovative air-interface design. Finally, we identify several promising technologies for the 6G ecosystem, including terahertz (THz) communications, very-large-scale antenna arrays [i.e., supermassive (SM) multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO)], large intelligent surfaces (LISs) and holographic beamforming (HBF), orbital angular momentum (OAM) multiplexing, laser and visible-light communications (VLC), blockchain-based spectrum sharing, quantum communications and computing, molecular communications, and the Internet of Nano-Things.

Analysis

Paper intelligence

Summary

This paper outlines a vision for 6G wireless networks, detailing their expected capabilities, architecture, and enabling technologies to support the intelligent information society of 2030.

Key findings

6G will offer superior performance to 5G, enabling multi-terabyte per second speeds and intelligent services.
A large-dimensional, autonomous network architecture integrating space, air, ground, and underwater networks is proposed.
AI and machine learning are crucial for autonomous networks and innovative air-interface design.
Several key technologies like THz communications, SM-MIMO, LISs, and quantum communications are identified.

Methods

Visionary outlining of future network capabilities.
Description of usage scenarios and requirements.
Presentation of a proposed network architecture.
Discussion of AI/ML integration and key enabling technologies.

Limitations

The paper presents a vision and proposed technologies, not empirical results.
Specific implementation challenges for the discussed technologies are not detailed.

Applications

Ubiquitous wireless connectivity.
Intelligent information society services.
Emerging services and applications requiring Tb/s speeds.

Confidence100%

Discovery

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Source record

Publication metadata

Authors: Zhengquan Zhang; Yue Xiao; Zheng Ma; Ming Xiao; Zhiguo Ding; Xianfu Lei; George K. Karagiannidis; Pingzhi Fan
Published: Jul 18, 2019
Journal or venue: IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazine
DOI: 10.1109/mvt.2019.2921208
Paper type: journal article
Source: Openalex

DOI OpenAlex