Beyond 5G Networks: Integration of Communication, Computing, Caching, and Control

In recent years, the exponential proliferation of smart devices with their intelligent applications poses severe challenges on conventional cellular networks. Such challenges can be potentially overcome by integrating communication, computing, caching, and control (i4C) technologies. In this survey, we first give a snapshot of different aspects of the i4C, comprising background, motivation, leading technological enablers, potential applications, and use cases. Next, we describe different models of communication, computing, caching, and control (4C) to lay the foundation of the integration approach. We review current stateof-the-art research efforts related to the i4C, focusing on recent trends of both conventional and artificial intelligence (AI)-based integration approaches. We also highlight the need for intelligence in resources integration. Then, we discuss the integration of sensing and communication (ISAC) and classify the integration approaches into various classes. Finally, we propose open challenges and present future research directions for beyond 5G networks, such as 6G.

Automated summary

In recent years, the rapid increase in smart devices and their intelligent applications has posed significant challenges to traditional cellular networks. The integration of communication, computing, caching, and control (i4C) technologies could potentially overcome these challenges. This survey provides an overview of the different aspects of i4C, including background, motivation, leading technological enablers, potential applications, and use cases. It reviews current research efforts related to i4C, focusing on recent trends in both conventional and AI-based integration approaches, and identifies the need for intelligence in resource integration. The survey also discusses the integration of sensing and communication (ISAC) and classifies integration approaches into various categories. Finally, it proposes open challenges and future research directions for beyond 5G networks, such as 6G.