Quantum Synchronisation
for Resilient and Secure Next Generation (5G/6G)
Campus Networks
Our project QSyncNextG aims to achieve the following objectives:
- Achieving network time synchronization precision that surpasses the performance of classical (non-quantum) approaches.
- Integrating these innovative, quantum technology-based solutions into an end-to-end demonstrator within the 5G/6G Radio Access Network and Mobile Edge Computing.
- Providing advanced network technologies to enhance network security by leveraging quantum technologies for secure, resilient, and precise network synchronization.
The commercialization of 5G networks has begun, and the research and standardization of future 6G networks are now playing a pivotal role in academia and industry. 5G and, in particular, 6G networks will become integral to all aspects of society and human life. This underscores the necessity of secure communication and constant availability of network resources to effectively support industry, healthcare, education, as well as governmental and societal activities. Cybersecurity and resilience are fundamental pillars of 5G/6G communication networks.
Furthermore, network synchronization is a critical process that enables network operations and underpins every functionality. In this context, QSyncNextG aims to develop and implement secure and resilient 5G/6G network synchronization with unprecedented precision by utilizing quantum technologies. This approach can exceed the capabilities of classical (non-quantum) methods. The results will be applied in 5G/6G campus networks, which are used for private and industrial communication systems. QSyncNextG will strengthen national operators and provider ecosystems for advanced network technologies within the framework of IT security by employing quantum technologies for secure, resilient, and precise network synchronization. The project develops and tests state-of-the-art quantum communication network technologies to enhance resilience and improve network security, addressing an aspect that is essential for every 5G/6G network functionality.
These novel solutions, based on quantum technologies, will be integrated into an end-to-end demonstrator within the 5G/6G Radio Access Network and Mobile Edge Computing. This will help lower market entry barriers for modern quantum network technologies aimed at enhancing security and resilience.
QSyncNextG also contributes to knowledge transfer at universities, which will establish new study programs to train quantum engineers, particularly focusing on security and resilience. This benefits both industry partners in the communications sector and academia in Germany. They represent the foundations of Germany’s digital sovereignty.
The test network developed as part of the project will demonstrate the resilience and security of a hybrid network comprising classical 5G/6G and quantum components. New methods in both technology domains will be developed, combined, and demonstrated. These novel synchronization procedures will enable the creation of a resilient architecture for 5G/6G, offering unprecedented network robustness, security, and reliability for end-to-end applications.
Funding Guidelines: Cybersicherheit und digitale Souveränität in den Kommunikationstechnologien 5G/6G, Themenschwerpunkt 4b) Sicherheitsinnovationen für Resilienz von Infrastrukturen
Title: QSyncNextG – Quantum Synchronisation for Resilient and Secure Next Generation (5G/6G) Campus Networks
Duration: 1.7.2023 – 30.6.2025
Coordinator: aconnic
Contact: QSyncNextG@aconnic.com
