Clustering in Cognitive Radio Networks Using Blockchain: Issues & Challenges

Wireless technology advancements have led to a scarcity of available spectrum, despite the numerous new wireless applications being developed. Cognitive Radio (CR) is a promising technology that enables the efficient utilization of available spectrum by unlicensed users. Cognitive radio networks (CRNs) can be centralized or distributed, with the latter being an ad hoc network. However, the dynamic nature of CRN poses several challenges, including maintaining networks topology, connectivity, and stability. Clustering is a popular technique used to address these issues. However, it has limitations such as central unit failures and intercommunication overhead. This paper proposes the use of blockchain technology as a solution for clustering in CRNs. The paper discusses how blockchain's features such as adaptability, connection reliability, and security can benefits the CRN clustering process. Furthermore, various clustering algorithms and their limitations are explored, and compared with blockchain-based clustering. The findings suggest that blockchain-based clustering can effectively address the challenges of CRNs.