To satisfy the urgent requirements of security for fifth generation (5G) fronthaul network, quantum key distribution (QKD) technique is taken into consideration as a promising way. In this paper, we first propose an architecture for quantum security beyond fifth generation (B5G) fronthaul optical network, which merges facilities of QKD into the architecture of existing 5G fronthaul network, enabling quantum signals to be transmitted with classical signals within the same fiber. Secondly, theoretical model analysis of interference with quantum signals caused by four wave mixing noise is performed. Moreover, the theory of secure key rate calculation under noise interference is introduced. Lastly, the QKD performance in the proposed architecture is evaluated, which leads to the conclusion that even when the quantity of B5G fronthaul optical channels for classical signals reaches up to 12, the secure transmission distance of QKD is still beyond 20km, which satisfies the demand of B5G fronthaul optical network.
To satisfy the urgent requirements of security for fifth generation (5G) fronthaul network, quantum key distribution (QKD) technique is taken into consideration as a promising way. In this paper, we first propose an architecture for quantum security beyond fifth generation (B5G) fronthaul optical network, which merges facilities of QKD into the architecture of existing 5G fronthaul network, enabling quantum signals to be transmitted with classical signals within the same fiber. Secondly, theoretical model analysis of interference with quantum signals caused by four wave mixing noise is performed. Moreover, the theory of secure key rate calculation under noise interference is introduced. Lastly, the QKD performance in the proposed architecture is evaluated, which leads to the conclusion that even when the quantity of B5G fronthaul optical channels for classical signals reaches up to 12, the secure transmission distance of QKD is still beyond 20km, which satisfies the demand of B5G fronthaul optical network.
A research contribution focusing on the Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)-enabled solutions assisting in the security framework of an optical 5G fronthaul segment is presented. We thoroughly investigate the integration of a BB84-QKD link, operating at telecom band, delivering quantum keys for the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)-256 encryption engines of a packetized fronthaul layer interconnecting multiple 5G terminal nodes. Secure Key Rate calculations are studied for both dedicated and shared fiber configurations to identify the attack surface of AES-encrypted data links in each deployment scenario. We also propose a converged fiber-wireless scenario, exploiting a mesh networking extension operated by mmWave wireless links. In addition to the quantum layer performance, emphasis is placed on the strict requirements of 5G-oriented optical edge segments, such as the latency and the availability of quantum keys. We find that for the dark fiber case, secret keys can be distilled at fiber lengths much longer than the maximum fiber fronthaul distance corresponding to the round-trip latency barrier, for both P2P and P2MP topologies. On the contrary, the inelastic Raman scattering makes the simultaneous transmission of quantum and classical signals much more challenging. To counteract the contamination of noise photons, a resilient classical/QKD coexistence scheme is adopted. Motivated by the recent advancements in quantum technology roadmap, our analysis aims to introduce the QKD blocks as a pillar of the quantum-safe security framework of the 5G/B5G-oriented fronthaul infrastructure.
The rapid evolution of mobile communication technology is propelling us from the era of 5G to the cusp of 6G, which promises ultra-high speeds, ultra-low latency, and seamless global connectivity. However, these ambitious goals require not only significant advancements in traditional communication technologies but also the integration of novel approaches to address emerging security and efficiency challenges. Quantum communication, particularly Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), offers a groundbreaking solution due to its inherent security based on the principles of quantum mechanics. This paper proposes an innovative architecture that combines QKD with Passive Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) for 6G fronthaul networks. The architecture, which includes components for signal transmission, processing, and monitoring, uses WDM to transmit both quantum signals and classical signals over a single fiber, optimizing resource utilization, ensuring security, and enhancing reliability. The quantum signals are detected by single-photon detectors to generate secure keys, while the classical signals carry regular communication data. The passive WDM system efficiently uses fiber resources, is cost-effective, and is easy to upgrade, making it highly compatible with classical optical communication. Extensive simulation experiments are conducted to evaluate the impact of key parameters such as transmission distance, attenuation coefficient, photon count per pulse, dark count rate, and detection efficiency on the secure key rate and quantum error rate. The results indicate that careful optimization of these parameters can substantially enhance system performance, making the architecture highly suitable for high-security transmission scenarios in 6G networks. This research provides new insights into the integration of quantum and classical communications in 6G fronthaul networks, demonstrating the potential of quantum-enhanced 6G networks.
5G is another age of broadband portable correspondence innovation including high speed, low latency, and large connectivity, and quantum cryptography is a technology of the combination of quantum mechanics and cryptography. In order to combine 5G fronthual with the QKD (quantum key distribution), we conduct research on this paper. First, this paper proposes DWDM-QKD (dense wavelength division multiplexing-quantum key distribution) 5G fronthaul architecture. It contains AAU (active antenna unit) sites, multiplexer, de-multiplexer, and DU (distributed unit) sites. Second, the spontaneous Raman scattering noise interference model is analyzed theoretically, and the secure key rate calculation theory is used. Finally, the simulation evaluates the performance of QKD in the proposed architecture, the reduction of classical power can lead to an increase in the secure key rate.
In the digital age, 5G technology has significantly enhanced global communication capabilities, providing strong support for various industries. However, 5G falls short of achieving comprehensive intelligence within the Internet of Things (IoT), propelling the development of 6G technology. 6G is expected to further enhance network performance by integrating advanced technologies such as AI and quantum communication, while expanding application scenarios to include communication in extreme environments for comprehensive global connectivity. This paper proposes an innovative fronthaul architecture that applies Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology to the 5G fronthaul, leveraging its unconditionally secure key generation and distribution mechanism. In this design, costlier Alice devices are placed on the AAU side, while less expensive Bob devices are positioned on the DU side, optimizing deployment to reduce engineering costs and lower deployment barriers. The feasibility of this architecture is demonstrated by calculating the secure key rate. Comparative analysis with existing research is performed to clarify future research directions. These innovations not only enhance 5G network security but also offer new solutions for the security requirements of 6G networks, such as data security, network resilience, and algorithm transparency. Our research offers strategic value for future network security, laying the groundwork for reliable networks.
With the global deployment of 5G networks, the demand for high bandwidth and low latency has driven innovations in fronthaul architectures. However, traditional solutions face challenges related to security and signal interference. This paper proposes an innovative quantum-enhanced converged wireless-fiber 5G fronthaul system that integrates quantum key distribution (QKD) technology with a passive wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) architecture to achieve physical-layer secure communication. The system deploys the quantum transmitter (Alice) at the active antenna unit (AAU) side and the receiver (Bob) at the distribution unit (DU) side, leveraging the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, quantum measurement collapse theory, and the no-cloning theorem to detect eavesdropping attempts. Simulation results demonstrate the significant impact of noise detection probability, fiber loss, and transmission distance on both the secure key rate and quantum bit error rate (QBER). Key findings highlight the need to minimize fiber loss, reduce transmission distance, lower filter loss, decrease noise detection probability, and improve detection efficiency. These optimizations collectively enhance the secure key rate while reducing the QBER, thereby improving overall system reliability. Remarkably, this solution achieves these security enhancements without requiring large-scale modifications to existing infrastructure, offering a practical and cost-effective upgrade path for current 5G deployments while providing a future-proof foundation for emerging 6G networks. The architecture’s inherent scalability and compatibility make it particularly suitable for high-security applications, including government communications, financial transactions, and critical infrastructure protection—bridging the gap between theoretical quantum security and practical wireless network implementation.
Thanks to the development of 5G technology, the construction of edge data centers has been highly valued. In order to ensure the security of signal transmission in edge data centers, it is a promising measure to apply the quantum key distribution (QKD) technology to edge data centers. To solve the problem of noise interference in the process of applying QKD technology, this paper first proposes the edge-end quantum one-way edge data center architecture, that is, the edge data center that first distributes the data to the surrounding clusters, and then transmits the single data from the edge to the end. Directed quantum signals increase the safe communication distance to meet the requirements of information encryption. Secondly, we conduct research on the four-wave mixing (FWM)noise interference in the architecture and the secure key rate model of the QKD system and perform theoretical calculations of the noise power and the rate of the secure key. Finally, through simulation, we can evaluate that QKD has the characteristic of high degree of security and its performance is affected by channel location, classical signal power and QKD detection efficiency, etc. The FWM noise power increases first and then decreases with the increase of transmission distance, with the maximum distance of 15 km. When the distance between the classical channel and the quantum channel is more than 200 GHz, the effect of FWM noise on QKD is weak.