Perspectives on 6G Architectures

TL;DR

This paper discusses the evolving architecture of 6G networks, emphasizing integration of AI, virtual environments, and seamless connectivity across diverse networks to meet future use case demands.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive perspective on 6G architecture design, highlighting the integration of distributed processing, AI, and multi-network compatibility for future deployment.

Findings

6G architectures will require integration of AI and distributed processing.

Virtual cloud environments are essential for 6G network functions.

Backward compatibility is a key consideration for 6G deployment.

Abstract

Mobile communications have been undergoing a generational change every ten years. While 5G network deployments are maturing, significant efforts are being made to standardize 6G, which is expected to be commercially introduced by 2030. This paper provides unique perspectives on the 6G network (radio and core) architecture(s) from the anticipated 6G use cases to meet the necessary performance requirements. To cater for the key 6G use cases, the 6G architecture must integrate different network-level functions in a multiplicity of virtual cloud environments, leveraging the advancements of distributed processing, artificial intelligence, and securely integrating different sub-networks e.g., terrestrial, and non-terrestrial networks into the overall 6G network. This paper characterizes the impact of 6G architectures from a deployment perspective with backwards compatibility in mind.