This study investigates the integration of blockchain technology with sixth-generation (6G) networks, a synergy poised to address critical challenges such as security, privacy, scalability, and decentralized resource management in 6G and future networks. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach combining bibliometric analysis and a systematic literature review, we examined the evolving research landscape from 2019 to 2024. Although research on blockchain-6G integration is still relatively recent, the field has witnessed significant growth in publications, highlighting the increasing focus on this area. Key findings reveal three distinct research clusters: AI methods, focusing on techniques like federated learning and reinforcement learning within 6G environments; blockchain methods, exploring the use of smart contracts and distributed ledger technology (DLT) for enhanced security, spectrum management, and resource allocation; and 6G applications, demonstrating blockchain’s role in supporting the Internet of Things (IoT), Industry 4.0, and the metaverse. Despite these advancements, challenges such as high computational costs, energy consumption, and the need for scalable consensus mechanisms remain unresolved. The chapter also identifies future research directions aimed at overcoming these limitations and maximizing blockchain’s potential in building secure, efficient, and scalable 6G networks. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge by mapping key trends and offering insights into the future of blockchain-enabled 6G networks, providing valuable guidance for both academia and industry.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Exploring the Synergy Between Blockchain Technology and 6G Networks: A Bibliometric and Systematic Literature Study

  • Kudakwashe Nyandoro,
  • Duy Hoang Pham,
  • YongHan Ahn

摘要

This study investigates the integration of blockchain technology with sixth-generation (6G) networks, a synergy poised to address critical challenges such as security, privacy, scalability, and decentralized resource management in 6G and future networks. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach combining bibliometric analysis and a systematic literature review, we examined the evolving research landscape from 2019 to 2024. Although research on blockchain-6G integration is still relatively recent, the field has witnessed significant growth in publications, highlighting the increasing focus on this area. Key findings reveal three distinct research clusters: AI methods, focusing on techniques like federated learning and reinforcement learning within 6G environments; blockchain methods, exploring the use of smart contracts and distributed ledger technology (DLT) for enhanced security, spectrum management, and resource allocation; and 6G applications, demonstrating blockchain’s role in supporting the Internet of Things (IoT), Industry 4.0, and the metaverse. Despite these advancements, challenges such as high computational costs, energy consumption, and the need for scalable consensus mechanisms remain unresolved. The chapter also identifies future research directions aimed at overcoming these limitations and maximizing blockchain’s potential in building secure, efficient, and scalable 6G networks. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge by mapping key trends and offering insights into the future of blockchain-enabled 6G networks, providing valuable guidance for both academia and industry.