Integrating Physical Layer Security with Blockchain into Future Wireless Networks

The fifth-generation (5G) and beyond (xG) wireless networks are designed to fulfill the demands of vertical applications, such as high traffic throughput, ultra-massive connectivity, extremely low latency, and high-quality service. However, the heterogeneous nature of these future networks introduces significant security challenges, including issues of confidentiality, privacy, and trustworthiness, especially in the context of emerging paradigms like quantum computing. Traditional security measures are proving inadequate, highlighting the need for intelligent, adaptable, and comprehensive security techniques. As alternatives, physical layer security (PLS) and blockchain technologies are presented as promising solutions. Indeed, PLS can improve security by exploiting channel characteristics, while blockchain facilitates data decentralization, integrity, and trust within networks. This prompts a thorough review of the existing literature on PLS and blockchain, leading to the development of a framework that integrates PLS (at the physical layer) with blockchain (at higher layers) in 5G/xG systems. Consequently, we propose a novel cross-layer architecture that leverages both PLS and blockchain to efficiently meet future network requirements.