In recent developments, China Telecom has been making significant strides in 6G technology research, focusing on distributed network architecture and core technological advancements. The China Telecom Research Institute is leading these initiatives through an ambitious 6G distributed network test platform, established as part of China Telecom’s large-scale scientific and technological innovation device. This platform is designed to test and verify critical 6G network features, providing essential insights and foundational data for selecting potential 6G network architectures and technologies.
Here’s a closer look at China Telecom’s approach to 6G distributed networking, including the technological innovations being verified and the collaborative framework supporting these advancements.
A New 6G Distributed Network Architecture
China Telecom’s 6G test platform introduces a hierarchical distribution and scenario-specific customization approach to 6G distributed network architecture. This design enables network configurations to adapt dynamically based on user demands and specific use cases. To ensure the network meets the rigorous demands of next-generation connectivity, China Telecom has been conducting extensive technical verification across several domains within the distributed network setup.
Key Areas of Focus in Network Collaboration and Distributed Service Framework
Central to the 6G network testing is the focus on distributed service frameworks and collaboration technologies within the network. This includes verification of subnet generation and deployment techniques, which allow the network to function in isolated but interconnected segments, enhancing resilience. The company has also been testing subnet topology concealment methods to improve security by hiding critical network structure details from potential external threats. Additionally, the verification process includes distributed network node identification credentials, which contribute to secure authentication across network nodes, and cross-network disaster recovery protocols, which enable networks to collaborate for resilience against failures or breaches.
These collaborative approaches allow 6G networks to maintain stability and security across multiple network domains, reducing vulnerabilities and potential impact from disruptions. By prioritizing disaster recovery and interoperability, China Telecom’s 6G network framework is engineered to provide secure, continuous service even during unexpected outages or security events.
Enhancing Communication, Intelligence, and Computing Capabilities
A major component of China Telecom’s testing is the verification of service functions related to communication, perception, intelligence, and computing. China Telecom’s research aims to establish reliable and efficient basic service capabilities within these areas. The network’s communication service framework supports multi-service communication, enabling seamless integration of data and intelligent processing across the network. This also includes collaborative control and scheduling functionalities to manage diverse network demands efficiently.
Furthermore, a dedicated data service framework is in place to support artificial intelligence (AI) and perception-based services, which are expected to play a vital role in future 6G applications. Another critical area of exploration involves data protocol efficiency, a component aimed at enhancing how data is transmitted and processed within the network. These advancements promise to lay a foundation for 6G networks that can adapt to the increasingly complex requirements of intelligent devices and AI-driven applications, thus extending beyond traditional communication to encompass intelligent computing and real-time data perception.
Preliminary Testing Outcomes: Flexible and Resilient 6G Network Design
The initial test results of the 6G distributed network demonstrate encouraging progress, underscoring the potential of distributed networking in providing flexibility and reliability. The data from these tests indicate that distributed 6G networks can adapt effectively to different scenarios, offering diverse services ranging from intelligent computing to collaborative processing. Notably, the subnet design and collaborative technologies have proven beneficial for subnet isolation and reliability, minimizing the impact of network issues and enhancing overall network stability.
The findings highlight the feasibility of distributed 6G architecture as a robust solution for future connectivity demands, suggesting that a distributed approach may indeed be the way forward in building resilient and secure 6G networks. By reinforcing subnet isolation and strengthening inter-network trust, the architecture promotes a dependable 6G environment capable of delivering uninterrupted service under various conditions.
Collaboration with Industry Leaders on 6G Distributed Network Research
China Telecom is not working alone in this ambitious endeavor. As a leading contributor to the IMT-2030 (6G) Promotion Group, China Telecom has partnered with key players in the telecommunications sector, including the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, China Mobile, China Unicom, ZTE, and Huawei, among others. Together, these organizations are conducting systematic research projects, such as “Application Scenarios and Demand Research for 6G Distributed Network Technology” and “Scenario-Customized 6G Distributed Network Architecture and Technology Research.”
This collaborative approach extends internationally, with China Telecom leading critical initiatives within the China Communications Standards Association (CCSA), where it has launched the first research project on 6G distributed network technology. Additionally, China Telecom has taken a leading role in the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), heading up the first 6G-focused distributed edge network project. These initiatives reflect China Telecom’s commitment to fostering innovation in 6G technology alongside industry partners and standard-setting bodies, positioning China as a leader in the development of next-generation network frameworks.
Publishing Insights and Future Directions: The “6G Distributed Networking Technology White Paper”
To share insights gained from its testing and research, China Telecom presented the outcomes of its platform testing and released the “6G Distributed Networking Technology White Paper” at the 8th Future Network Development Conference held in 2024. This white paper outlines key findings and recommendations for 6G distributed networking, providing guidance for future network design and technology implementation. It offers a roadmap for implementing distributed architecture principles across various sectors, highlighting use cases where these innovations could be most impactful.
The white paper also emphasizes the need for continued research and cross-industry collaboration to refine distributed networking and address challenges associated with large-scale deployment. As 6G technology moves from concept to reality, China Telecom’s findings and white paper provide an invaluable foundation for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers involved in building the next generation of connectivity solutions.
Shaping the Future of 6G Networking
China Telecom’s work on 6G distributed network architecture and key technology verification underscores its commitment to pioneering the future of telecommunications. By focusing on distributed service frameworks, network collaboration, intelligent computing, and multi-service communication, China Telecom is actively shaping a versatile and resilient 6G framework that addresses the evolving needs of tomorrow’s digital landscape.
As the technology inches closer to widespread rollout, China Telecom’s contributions — from network architecture innovations to strategic partnerships and shared knowledge through the white paper — mark essential steps toward defining 6G standards and applications. With distributed network architecture at its core, 6G promises to deliver not only faster and more secure connections but also a more adaptive and intelligent networking experience that can support emerging technologies and applications across industries.