Towards Sustainable Mobile Deployments of 5G+ Integrated Access and Backhaul Networks

With the advent of mmWave communication in next-generation wireless networks and their associated non-line-of-sight coverage constraints, Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) technology has become increasingly relevant. Current IAB approaches assume fixed power connections, while the next step towards total mobility involves battery-operated IAB nodes. The potential scalability benefits of nomadic 5G+ networks with fully wireless nodes can be particularly valuable in dynamic application scenarios, offering the required adaptability while satisfying stringent network utility constraints. However, managing the balance between operational costs, pertaining energy efficiency, as well as communication integrity in IAB networks is a significant challenge and an active research topic. Consequently, this work in progress paper explores recent advances in IAB network management that aim to enhance energy efficiency and network utility. It identifies new research opportunities and discusses their challenges. Additionally, a conceptual Zero-Touch Management (ZTM) framework for optimizing the operational efficiency of IAB networks is proposed. The framework considers dynamic link scheduling and resource allocation strategies for improving energy usage. This ongoing study intends to provide preliminary insights into the current state of research on IAB network management, emphasizing the topics of energy efficiency and service quality as future research directions.