Quantum-Computing-Based Channel and Signal Modeling for 6G Wireless Systems

Sixth generation (6G) wireless technology introduces a paradigm shift and fundamental transformation of digital wireless connectivity by converging pillars of softwarization, virtualization, and wireless networks. Terahertz (THz) communication technologies are predicted to become more significant in 6G applications as the requirement for bandwidth grows and wireless cell sizes shrink. As a result, 6G will be able to deal with and manage numerous devices and services requiring enhanced spectral throughput and efficiently work with high interference levels. This convergence highlights the increased threat surface of 6G networks and the potentially severe impacts of sophisticated cyber incidents. Furthermore, the heterogeneity of connected devices and provided services will generate a huge amount of data to be processed and managed efficiently. Quantum computing (QC) can efficiently solve several 6G computationally hard problems with a quadratic speedup and provide adaptive techniques for controlling the current and future significant security threats of the 6G network. This article discusses the role of various QC components in 6G and explores the opportunities and challenges of achieving such transformation.