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Quantum Cryptography in 6G Networks: Opportunities and Challenges

Hitesh Singh, Vivek Kumar, Kumud Saxena, Ramjee Prasad

Published Sep 23, 2026• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

The high-speed development of the communication network preconditions the appearance of the next sixth generation (6G) networks, which will be even faster, offer the absence of latency, and provide an enormous number of new applications and services. With the growing sophistication and integration of these networks in different industries, there has never been a more important reason why they should have strong security in place. In this chapter, the authors dig into the radical nature of quantum cryptography in the 6G-network and explore the extent of opportunities it has offered as well as the challenges it has brought [ 1 ].

DOI
10.1201/9788743814719-4

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While the commercial deployment of 5G networks and beyond is a reality, the first work for the definition and study of 6G networks has started. The scientific community agrees that these networks will be characterised by a very high spatial density of access points, heterogeneity of access technologies, an increased number of users per access point, and demand for ubiquitous connectivity that must combine ultra-low latency, very high bandwidth, and high energy efficiency [1, 2]. Among the emerging challenges, holographic communications, high-precision manufacturing, the ubiquitous introduction of intelligence, and the incorporation of new technologies based on sub-terahertz (THz) or Visible Light Communications (VLC) are real issues. These are taking place in a truly three-dimensional coverage framework, integrating terrestrial and aerial radio to meet the needs with cloud-based capabilities where and when needed (on-demand). Radio frequencies are used in wireless telecommunications, but the need for very high throughput requires wider bandwidths, hence very high frequencies, in particular THz bands. Moving to a higher frequency range—from 100 GHz to 10 THz—is expected to significantly increase the bandwidth of the radio channel, which will make it possible to serve a significant number of users. In this case, we are not talking about the connection of cell phones, tablets, or computers (and even smart cars)—we are considering the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which within one base station can be quite a lot. Therefore, the technologies for beamforming, device location, etc., developed for the 5G generation that is just being implemented now should also remain but will be used at higher frequencies [3]. For which 6G is primarily intended, IoT solutions have been given a particular name: ‘human-machine-things’. They involve three elements in the system: a person as a physical carrier; an intelligent device with which the person interacts; collects data and executes commands from an application running on the person's device [4]. The 6G radio networks will provide the means of communication and data gathering necessary to accumulate information. Still, a system's approach will be required for the 6G technology market as a whole involving data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and next-generation computation capabilities via HPC and quantum computing [3, 5]. This tremendous amount of data may be harnessed, with strong processing and learning capabilities, to manage the network at different levels. To this end, quantum computing methods can play a significant enabling role and can provide a guaranteed security platform. Towards provisioning this massive connectivity and efficiently processing the voluminous data available at the user and network sides, quantum-powered computing methods have a strong potential in realising the ambitions of a service-driven, fully intelligent 6G communication network. There is every reason to believe that the integration of quantum technology can improve the throughput, efficiency, and security of 6G networks. In addition to the advantages mentioned above, this technology also has benefits in computing speed, guaranteed security, and minimal storage requirements. This makes it ideally suited for various future quantum communication network applications. Research is needed on many fronts to evaluate the potential opportunities of quantum computing in 6G applications. In 5G, a functional division is operated in both the RAN and core networks to meet the ultra-low latency and ultra-high efficiency requirements of 5G verticals. Notably, RAN functions are split into cloud-deployed services with interfacing capabilities. This new architecture has a significant impact on the efficient implementation of security processes [6]. One of the key challenges in deploying secure 5G networks is analysing how current cryptographic algorithms for secure authentication and data transmission can adapt to provide secure authentication between services and secure data encryption while ensuring that stringent efficiency requirements are met [7]. The powerful parallel processing capability of quantum search algorithms can be leveraged to solve large-scale wireless optimisation problems. (1) Is this ‘beyond 5G?’ This topic is highly exploratory and undoubtedly beyond the boundaries of core 5G R&D. (2) What are the new features and key challenges? Classically, the mutual information between the channel input and output must be maximised. For quantum channels, the capacity must be redefined. Quantum channels can increase the achievable capacity. As a result, error correction without redundancy is possible on noisy channels. Quantum computers can enable exponentially complex combinatorial ML decoding in classical systems [5, 6]. To cope with latency-critical scenarios such as automated cars and medical applications, communication must be accomplished in a concise time. Achieving latency of only a few milliseconds is a real challenge. To achieve low latency and ultra-high reliability, it is essential to develop powerful high-end processors that consume little power. Quantum computing seems to be a reliable solution to this issue [8]. With variable quality of service (QoS) requirements, a variable radio resource must be allocated to the user. This can be of variable bandwidth, variable power, or both. Another challenging aspect of 6G is that with the propagation frequency, the signal can attenuate quickly and have a high penetration loss at high frequencies [9]. The signal is also automatically attenuated when accessing homes, residences, or workplaces. As the frequency increases, radio waves attenuate and may have difficulty penetrating the walls of buildings and homes while affecting users' QoS requirements. Therefore, it is very important to develop stable, fast and accurate quantum algorithms to handle 6G communication requirements by dynamically allocating variable resources [10]. The current 5G standard does not address the issue of quantum computing but relies on traditional cryptography. The development towards cloud and edge native infrastructures is expected to continue in 6G networks. While large-scale quantum computing can be expected to take a longer duration, it is time to prepare for the shift to cryptography that is secure in the post-quantum world. According to current knowledge, contemporary symmetric cryptography remains secure for the most part, even after the advent of quantum computing. Furthermore, authentication by a physical layer signature, such as RF fingerprinting, and some other technologies, such as randomisation of MIMO transmission coefficients, coding, etc., could potentially be used in 6G [5, 11]. Whether it is for the optimisation of heterogeneous resources in 6G networks that result in the solution of ‘NP-complete’ combinatorial problems, for the compensation of non-linear effects of a communication chain or the optimisation of MIMO transmitter pre-coding matrix, future network nodes and devices will have to be equipped with learning and decision-making capabilities through AI and machine learning, so that they autonomously optimise their operation in response to changes in the environment [5]. In this context, the use of optimisation techniques based on quantum computing and AI applied to the field of 6G networks could be of considerable interest. Besides, quantum computing allows NP-hard optimisation problems to be solved in linear time, making it possible to solve and execute network optimisation problems in a much faster time, even in real-time [5, 11]. Regulatory and standardisation work will impact our future technology solutions in 5G networks and beyond. Protecting individual privacy and identity has long been a challenge for standards bodies, as countries have very different perspectives and regulations in this area. International standards bodies such as JTC 1 have committees working on privacy frameworks and are making progress, but there is still much to be done [13]. To conclude, we believe that our readers will find this opinion piece useful in giving an overview of the importance of Quantum Computing/communications in shaping the next communication systems and its security platforms. This is a technology in its infancy and a lot of research remains to be carried out to achieve sustainable solutions and overcome the current challenges. The use of intelligent systems (AI, ML and other techniques) will be essential in achieving solutions faster and providing sustainable outcomes. But IoT devices as well as cloud and edges nodes must be AI-ready and be able to support the use of intelligent algorithms.

IET Quantum Communication•Sep 1, 2021•13 citations
The high-speed development of the communication network preconditions the appearance of the next sixth generation (6G) networks, which will be even faster, offer the absence of latency, and provide an enormous number of new applications and services. With the growing sophistication and integration of these networks in different industries, there has never been a more important reason why they should have strong security in place. In this chapter, the authors dig into the radical nature of quantum cryptography in the 6G-network and explore the extent of opportunities it has offered as well as the challenges it has brought [ 1 ].
As the world prepares for the advent of 6G networks, quantum technologies are becoming critical enablers of the next generation of communication systems. This survey paper investigates the convergence of quantum technologies and 6G networks, focusing on their applications, opportunities and challenges. We begin with an examination of the motivations for integrating quantum technologies into 6G, investigating the potential to overcome the limits of classical computing and cryptography. We then highlight key research gaps, particularly in quantum communication, quantum computing integration and security enhancement. A comprehensive overview of quantum technologies relevant to 6G, including quantum communication devices, quantum computing paradigms, and hybrid quantum-classical approaches is provided. A particular focus is on the role of quantum technologies in enhancing 6G Radio Access Networks (RAN), 6G core and edge network optimization, and 6G security. The survey paper also explores the application of quantum cryptography with a focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), Quantum Secure Direct Communication (QSDC) and quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms and assesses their implementation challenges and potential impact on 6G networks. We also discuss the significant challenges associated with integrating quantum technologies into existing communications infrastructures, including issues of technological maturity, standardization, and economic considerations. Finally, we summarize the lessons learned from current research and outline future research directions to guide the ongoing development of quantum-enabled 6G networks.
The advent of 6G networks is expected to accelerate developments in fields like artificial intelligence, smart cities, autonomous technologies, and the Internet of Things (IoT) by providing remarkable connectivity, extremely fast speeds, and sophisticated data-driven services. The security flaws in these networks, however, also change with time, especially in light of the emerging threat of quantum computing, which has the potential to make the cryptographic techniques used today outdated. The importance of quantum cryptography (QC) in defending 6G systems against these kinds of quantum-era threats is highlighted in this section. The significance of post-quantum cryptography and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in providing extremely secure, nearly impenetrable encryption to protect the privacy and integrity of 6G communications is emphasized. The basic technology behind QC, how it integrates with 6G infrastructure, and the real-world difficulties of large-scale quantum-secure system deployment are also covered in the conversation. It also explores the impact of quantum-resistant algorithms, the hardware required to enable them, and the governmental actions necessary for widespread use. This part provides a thorough summary of the challenges and possibilities associated with safeguarding 6G networks for a future driven by quantum technology.
Quantum computing is a technology that utilizes quantum mechanics principles such as superposition and entanglement to offer significant advantages over classical computing.With the development of sixth generation (6G) technology quantum computing's high data processing capacity, efficiency in optimization processes, and contribution to secure communication systems are becoming increasingly important.This paper examines the role of quantum computing in 6G networks.It discusses its potential contributions in areas such as network optimization, quantum machine learning, secure communication protocols, and fault-tolerant computing.The ultra-low latency, high data rate, and dynamic spectrum management requirements of 6G can be significantly improved by integrating quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical systems.However, obstacles such as current limitations in quantum hardware, error correction requirements, and implementation challenges are also considered in detail.The paper outlines the potential solutions that quantum computing can provide to meet the performance demands of 6G, and discusses future research directions to further explore this promising technology intersection.
5G has been launched in a few countries of the world, so now all focus shifted towards the development of future 6G networks. 5G has connected all aspects of society. Ubiquitous connectivity has opened the doors for more data sharing. Although 5G is providing low latency, higher data rates, and high-speed yet there are some security-related vulnerabilities. Those security issues need to be mitigated for securing 6G networks from existing challenges. Classical cryptography will not remain enough for securing the 6G network. As all classical cryptography can be disabled with the help of quantum mechanics. Therefore, in the place of traditional security solutions, in this article, we have reviewed all the existing quantum solutions of 5G existing security issues to mitigate them and secure 6G in a Future Quantum World.
Quantum computing is a rapidly developing field with the potential to revolutionize many industries. However, it also poses a serious threat to the security of future networks as current communications rely on encryption to protect data from unauthorized access, which could be broken by quantum computers in the future. This means that they could be used to attack future networks like Beyond 5G (B5G) and Sixth Generation (6G) which are expected to be much more widely used than previous generations of networks. There are a number of things that can be done to mitigate the quantum threat to future networks. One approach is to develop new encryption algorithms, Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), that are resistant to quantum computers. Another approach is to use Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to create secure keys that cannot be broken by quantum computers. This work examines the current state of quantum and post-quantum cryptography and their applications in upcoming generations of wireless networks such as 6G, and the challenges that might arise for their implementation. Additionally, a new isogeny-based post-quantum cryptographic scheme is presented. This paper aims to advance and contribute to the research and development of quantum security in future networks.
While the commercial deployment of 5G networks and beyond is a reality, the first work for the definition and study of 6G networks has started. The scientific community agrees that these networks will be characterised by a very high spatial density of access points, heterogeneity of access technologies, an increased number of users per access point, and demand for ubiquitous connectivity that must combine ultra-low latency, very high bandwidth, and high energy efficiency [1, 2]. Among the emerging challenges, holographic communications, high-precision manufacturing, the ubiquitous introduction of intelligence, and the incorporation of new technologies based on sub-terahertz (THz) or Visible Light Communications (VLC) are real issues. These are taking place in a truly three-dimensional coverage framework, integrating terrestrial and aerial radio to meet the needs with cloud-based capabilities where and when needed (on-demand). Radio frequencies are used in wireless telecommunications, but the need for very high throughput requires wider bandwidths, hence very high frequencies, in particular THz bands. Moving to a higher frequency range—from 100 GHz to 10 THz—is expected to significantly increase the bandwidth of the radio channel, which will make it possible to serve a significant number of users. In this case, we are not talking about the connection of cell phones, tablets, or computers (and even smart cars)—we are considering the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which within one base station can be quite a lot. Therefore, the technologies for beamforming, device location, etc., developed for the 5G generation that is just being implemented now should also remain but will be used at higher frequencies [3]. For which 6G is primarily intended, IoT solutions have been given a particular name: ‘human-machine-things’. They involve three elements in the system: a person as a physical carrier; an intelligent device with which the person interacts; collects data and executes commands from an application running on the person's device [4]. The 6G radio networks will provide the means of communication and data gathering necessary to accumulate information. Still, a system's approach will be required for the 6G technology market as a whole involving data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and next-generation computation capabilities via HPC and quantum computing [3, 5]. This tremendous amount of data may be harnessed, with strong processing and learning capabilities, to manage the network at different levels. To this end, quantum computing methods can play a significant enabling role and can provide a guaranteed security platform. Towards provisioning this massive connectivity and efficiently processing the voluminous data available at the user and network sides, quantum-powered computing methods have a strong potential in realising the ambitions of a service-driven, fully intelligent 6G communication network. There is every reason to believe that the integration of quantum technology can improve the throughput, efficiency, and security of 6G networks. In addition to the advantages mentioned above, this technology also has benefits in computing speed, guaranteed security, and minimal storage requirements. This makes it ideally suited for various future quantum communication network applications. Research is needed on many fronts to evaluate the potential opportunities of quantum computing in 6G applications. In 5G, a functional division is operated in both the RAN and core networks to meet the ultra-low latency and ultra-high efficiency requirements of 5G verticals. Notably, RAN functions are split into cloud-deployed services with interfacing capabilities. This new architecture has a significant impact on the efficient implementation of security processes [6]. One of the key challenges in deploying secure 5G networks is analysing how current cryptographic algorithms for secure authentication and data transmission can adapt to provide secure authentication between services and secure data encryption while ensuring that stringent efficiency requirements are met [7]. The powerful parallel processing capability of quantum search algorithms can be leveraged to solve large-scale wireless optimisation problems. (1) Is this ‘beyond 5G?’ This topic is highly exploratory and undoubtedly beyond the boundaries of core 5G R&D. (2) What are the new features and key challenges? Classically, the mutual information between the channel input and output must be maximised. For quantum channels, the capacity must be redefined. Quantum channels can increase the achievable capacity. As a result, error correction without redundancy is possible on noisy channels. Quantum computers can enable exponentially complex combinatorial ML decoding in classical systems [5, 6]. To cope with latency-critical scenarios such as automated cars and medical applications, communication must be accomplished in a concise time. Achieving latency of only a few milliseconds is a real challenge. To achieve low latency and ultra-high reliability, it is essential to develop powerful high-end processors that consume little power. Quantum computing seems to be a reliable solution to this issue [8]. With variable quality of service (QoS) requirements, a variable radio resource must be allocated to the user. This can be of variable bandwidth, variable power, or both. Another challenging aspect of 6G is that with the propagation frequency, the signal can attenuate quickly and have a high penetration loss at high frequencies [9]. The signal is also automatically attenuated when accessing homes, residences, or workplaces. As the frequency increases, radio waves attenuate and may have difficulty penetrating the walls of buildings and homes while affecting users' QoS requirements. Therefore, it is very important to develop stable, fast and accurate quantum algorithms to handle 6G communication requirements by dynamically allocating variable resources [10]. The current 5G standard does not address the issue of quantum computing but relies on traditional cryptography. The development towards cloud and edge native infrastructures is expected to continue in 6G networks. While large-scale quantum computing can be expected to take a longer duration, it is time to prepare for the shift to cryptography that is secure in the post-quantum world. According to current knowledge, contemporary symmetric cryptography remains secure for the most part, even after the advent of quantum computing. Furthermore, authentication by a physical layer signature, such as RF fingerprinting, and some other technologies, such as randomisation of MIMO transmission coefficients, coding, etc., could potentially be used in 6G [5, 11]. Whether it is for the optimisation of heterogeneous resources in 6G networks that result in the solution of ‘NP-complete’ combinatorial problems, for the compensation of non-linear effects of a communication chain or the optimisation of MIMO transmitter pre-coding matrix, future network nodes and devices will have to be equipped with learning and decision-making capabilities through AI and machine learning, so that they autonomously optimise their operation in response to changes in the environment [5]. In this context, the use of optimisation techniques based on quantum computing and AI applied to the field of 6G networks could be of considerable interest. Besides, quantum computing allows NP-hard optimisation problems to be solved in linear time, making it possible to solve and execute network optimisation problems in a much faster time, even in real-time [5, 11]. Regulatory and standardisation work will impact our future technology solutions in 5G networks and beyond. Protecting individual privacy and identity has long been a challenge for standards bodies, as countries have very different perspectives and regulations in this area. International standards bodies such as JTC 1 have committees working on privacy frameworks and are making progress, but there is still much to be done [13]. To conclude, we believe that our readers will find this opinion piece useful in giving an overview of the importance of Quantum Computing/communications in shaping the next communication systems and its security platforms. This is a technology in its infancy and a lot of research remains to be carried out to achieve sustainable solutions and overcome the current challenges. The use of intelligent systems (AI, ML and other techniques) will be essential in achieving solutions faster and providing sustainable outcomes. But IoT devices as well as cloud and edges nodes must be AI-ready and be able to support the use of intelligent algorithms.