Next-Generation Communication Networks and Systems in Smart Cities: Enhancing Connectivity, Security, and Performance

Dear Colleagues,

Rapid advancements in smart city technologies have transformed urban living, with next-generation communication networks and systems playing a pivotal role. These technologies, including optical and wireless communications, are crucial to seamless connectivity, efficient resource management, and an enhanced quality of life in smart cities. As the backbone of smart city infrastructure, these networks must address both performance and security challenges. The combination of advanced technologies like optical communication, quantum computing, and blockchains enhances network capabilities and reliability. Optical communication offers high-speed data transmission, quantum computing revolutionizes data processing and encryption, and blockchains ensure secure, transparent data management. This Special Issue will explore the latest advancements in communication networks and systems for smart cities, focusing on enhancing connectivity and security. Emphasizing telecommunications in urban environments, we will highlight innovative solutions to improve the efficiency and safety of smart city infrastructure.

We invite researchers and practitioners to contribute original research articles, reviews, and case studies that address the following topics of interest:

• Designing and implementing advanced communication protocols for smart city applications;
• Enhancing network resilience and performance using optical communication technologies;
• Combining wireless communication technologies for optimal smart city connectivity;
• Developing innovative network architectures and topologies for urban environments;
• Exploring the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in network optimization and management;
• Investigating the impact of technologies that are 5G or higher on smart city communication systems;
• Assessing the scalability and sustainability of next-generation communication networks;
• Evaluating the performance and reliability of smart city communication infrastructures;
• Implementing smart grid technologies and their integration into communication networks;
• Examining the role of quantum computing in enhancing communication network capabilities;
• Utilizing blockchains for secure and transparent data management in communication systems;
• Exploring the convergence of emerging technologies in communication networks;
• Addressing network security challenges within next-generation telecommunication systems;
• Developing advanced encryption methods for secure communication;
• Innovating data compression techniques for efficient data transmission;
• Examining case studies and real-world applications of advanced communication systems in smart cities.

The objective of this Special Issue is to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with next-generation communication networks in smart cities. By bringing together cutting-edge research and practical insights, we aim to highlight the critical role of communication technologies in the successful deployment and operation of smart city infrastructures, while also considering the importance of network security, encryption, and data compression.

We look forward to reading your valuable contributions to this exciting field.

Dr. Yousef Fazea
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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• wireless technology
• telecommunication networks
• artificial intelligence
• signal processing
• network security