Device-to-Device Communication in 5G/6G: Architectural Foundations and Convergence with Enabling Technologies

TL;DR

This paper reviews the architectural foundations of device-to-device communication in 5G/6G networks, analyzing its integration with enabling technologies, standardization efforts, challenges, and future research directions.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive survey of D2D architecture, integration with 5G/6G technologies, and discusses standardization and future research challenges.

Findings

D2D enhances spectral and energy efficiency in 5G/6G.

Integration of D2D with advanced technologies presents new opportunities.

Identifies key challenges and future research directions for D2D deployment.

Abstract

Device-to-Device (D2D) communication is a promising solution to meet the growing demands of 5G and future 6G networks by enabling direct communication between user devices. It enhances spectral efficiency (SE) and energy efficiency (EE), reduces latency, and supports proximity-based services. As wireless systems evolve toward 5G and 6G paradigms, the integration of D2D with advanced cellular technologies introduces new opportunities and challenges. This survey paper reviews the architectural foundations of D2D communication and explores its integration with key 5G/6G enabling technologies. We review standardization efforts, analyze core challenges, and highlight future research directions to unlock the full potential of D2D in next-generation wireless networks.