BE-RAN: Blockchain-enabled Open RAN for 6G with DID and Privacy-Preserving Communication

TL;DR

BE-RAN introduces a blockchain-based decentralized RAN architecture for 6G, enhancing security, privacy, and efficiency through distributed ledger technology and privacy-preserving peer-to-peer communication.

Contribution

This paper presents a novel blockchain-enabled RAN architecture that decentralizes authentication and identity management, supporting secure, private, and efficient 6G network operations.

Findings

Reduces communication and computation overheads

Enhances privacy with decentralized identity management

Supports secure peer-to-peer communication and CSC integration

Abstract

As 6G networks evolve towards a synergistic system of Communication, Sensing, and Computing, Radio Access Networks become more distributed, necessitating robust end-to-end authentication. We propose Blockchain-enabled Radio Access Networks, a novel decentralized RAN architecture enhancing security, privacy, and efficiency in authentication processes. BE-RAN leverages distributed ledger technology to establish trust, offering user-centric identity management, enabling mutual authentication, and facilitating on-demand point-to-point inter-network elements and UE-UE communication with accountable logging and billing service add-on for public network users, all without relying on centralized authorities. We envision a thoroughly decentralized RAN model and propose a privacy-preserving P2P communication approach that complements existing security measures while supporting the CSC paradigm. Results demonstrate BE-RAN significantly reduces communication and computation overheads, enhances privacy through decentralized identity management, and facilitates CSC integration, advancing towards more efficient and secure 6G networks.