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.
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.
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.
This study investigate the integration of discrete modulated coherent state (DMCS) continuous variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) with wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) in 5G fronthaul optical networks. Firstly, an architecture of quantum-classical co-propagation in C-band DWDM-based 5G fornthaul network is constructed and the wavelength assignment scheme for classical/quantum channels is designed. By assigning the quantum channels in band of low Raman scattering coefficient and setting the quantum-classical channel space to be 200 GHz, the proposed scheme can effectively reduce the spontaneous Raman scattering (SpRS) and four-wave-mixing (FWM) noise. Then, the secret key rate (SKR) of DMCS protocol and the excess noise induced by SpRS are analyzed theoretically to furtherly character the co-propagation architecture. Lastly, numerical simulation is carried out to evaluate the impact of SpRS noise on the CV-QKD performance. The simulation results show that by employing the proposed wavelength assignment scheme, the co-propagation system can support positive SKR at a maximum distance of approximately 41 km for 8 classical channels use and 30 km for 16 classical channels use, respectively. Our work can provide a reference for practical deployment of quantum secured 5G fronthaul optical networks.
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.
The rapid evolution of mobile communication technology from 5G to 6G brings great opportunities but also poses serious security and privacy challenges. Although 6G networks offer advantages such as ultra-low latency, extremely high data rates, and massive connectivity, their decentralized, AI-driven, and highly virtualized architecture makes them more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Traditional encryption methods are increasingly incapable of defending against emerging attacks. To address this issue, this paper proposes an innovative quantum-secured passive WDM fronthaul architecture that integrates BB84-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) with existing WDM fiber communication technology, balancing high security with feasibility. The architecture adopts an asymmetric design: low-cost quantum transmitters are deployed at distributed AAU sites, while high-performance quantum receivers are centrally installed at DU sites. This significantly reduces hardware costs and simplifies large-scale deployment. In addition, a centralized Key Management Center (KMC) is introduced to enable dynamic key distribution and real-time updates, further enhancing the system’s security and operational efficiency. Simulation results show that under a fiber attenuation of 0.20 dB/km and a detection efficiency of 10%, the system can maintain a relatively high secure key rate and an acceptable quantum bit error rate (QBER) over a transmission distance of 170 km. Furthermore, by optimizing key parameters such as detection efficiency, fiber attenuation coefficient, and the average photon number per pulse, the system’s key generation rate and secure transmission distance can be further improved.
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.
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.