Sustainable security solutions for 6G communication networks
6G communication networks will be a complex connected ecosystem that will be comprised of several network entities, actors, and service providers. It is therefore predicted that 6G networks will have a much wider security threats landscape. Ensuring the successful deployment of secure 6G technology requires addressing crucial aspects of sustainability, and its alignment with global sustainable development goals (SDGs). In response to these challenges, Professor Petri Mähönen, the principal investigator, at Aalto University, and in partnership with Dr. Abhishek Gupta - Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK), and Dr. Nitin Auluck - Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IITR), have initiated a collaborative research project titled SUSTAINSEC-6G. This collaborative project aims to develop sustainable security solutions for the future 6G communication networks. The project aims to work in the direction of robust, resilient, energy-efficient security solutions for 6G networks.
The research addresses two objectives. Firstly, it delves into the pivotal role of sustainable and environmentally responsible secure communication networks, often referred to as green ICT, in the deployment of 6G technology. This involves efforts to reduce the carbon footprint and emissions associated with these networks while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework. Moreover, the project acknowledges the complex security landscape of 6G networks, characterized by decentralization and distributed architecture. Accordingly, traditional security mechanisms may not suffice, therefore the development and implementation of dynamic, intelligent, and energy-efficient security measures are a necessity. To address this, the project emphasizes the integration of various security-enabling technologies into 6G networks such as Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum-resistant cryptography, and Edge Computing.
Secondly, in addition to its scientific contributions, the project fosters a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration and knowledge exchange. Through student and staff research mobility, joint publications, international workshops, and intensive courses, the initiative will nurture a community of scholars dedicated to advancing the frontiers of security of 6G communication networks. This collaboration will contribute to endeavors that foster long-term research cooperation between the participating institutions, thereby strengthening the global foundation for secure 6G communication.
SUSTAINSEC-6G underscores the importance of sustainability and security in shaping the future of 6G connectivity. This collaborative project stands as a testament to the power of global cooperation in shaping the future of telecommunications. With its focus on sustainability, security, and collaboration, it indicates a new era of innovation and connectivity, that will redefine the digital landscape for generations to come.
Sustainable Security Solutions for 6G Communication Networks is seed-funded as part of the India Pilot initiative from the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture. Aalto is coordinating the India Pilot Network FICORE (Finnish Indian Consortia for Research and Education) which involves 38 higher education institutions from Finland and India.