A self-driving car can generate up to 19 terabytes of data per hour, straining current 5G networks that must handle real-time 3D maps and sensor data. The 20 to 50 millisecond latency of 5G poses risks, as delays in critical stop commands may lead to accidents. Upcoming 6G technology is expected to address these issues with significantly faster speeds, lower latencies, and integrated AI networks for enhanced communication and sensing capabilities.
Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) will enable 6G networks to function as radar-like sensors that precisely map physical environments. This capability will allow autonomous vehicles to detect pedestrians and obstacles before traditional cameras could, and is also essential for providing real-time data for digital twin systems. However, transitioning to 6G presents challenges such as interoperability issues, cybersecurity risks, increased energy consumption, and expensive hardware upgrades.
6G networks will be built as standalone systems from the outset, contrasting with 5G’s non-standalone architecture that relied on existing 4G infrastructure. According to Ericsson, a standalone 6G network will enhance scalability and reduce complexity, facilitating advanced capabilities like network slicing. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) aims to create unified standards for 6G through collaboration among various telecom standard organizations.
With millisecond latency, 6G will support distributed edge networks where AI models operate more efficiently than current camera technologies. However, the rise of ISAC may introduce new data types and increase security and privacy concerns, as AI-enabled endpoints will expand the attack surface. Stephen Douglas, head of strategic thought leadership at Keysight Technologies, highlighted that AI-native networks could expose more API integrations and new threats, including data poisoning and adversarial inputs.
Gartner estimates that by 2026, over 30% of API demand will stem from AI and GenAI applications. Akamai’s report on app and API security revealed a 32% increase in API security incidents due to flaws in authentication and authorization. In a recent threat analysis, Ericsson identified more than 20 types of threats related to 6G, including misuse of spatial mapping data and adversarial machine learning attacks.
6G is projected to deliver speeds 50 to 100 times faster than 5G, with peak speeds reaching 1 Tbps while reducing latency to microseconds. This capability will enhance applications such as remote surgeries and large-scale robotics. Siddhant Cally, Senior Research Analyst at Counterpoint Research, stated that 6G’s AI-native architecture will enable more autonomous operations and adaptive security frameworks.
Despite its benefits, the current networking infrastructure is not prepared for the demands of 6G. Existing routers and firewalls will require upgrades to handle the increased throughput and lower latency. This shift will necessitate architecture changes that support higher automation and tighter integration with security measures.
Douglas expressed concern that most enterprise networks are only partially prepared for the shift to 6G. As organizations transition, many will operate hybrid networks utilizing both AI-native 6G and legacy 5G infrastructures for years. Cally noted that firms must focus on building fiber infrastructure, edge computing capabilities, and zero-touch network operations as they prepare for 6G.
Ericsson anticipates that 6G specifications will be finalized by 2028, with commercial rollouts starting in 2029-30. Initial deployments will rely on existing 5G standalone infrastructure while gradually introducing AI-native capabilities. Douglas recommended that organizations adopt a phased upgrade strategy to minimize disruption, focusing on 5G-Advanced readiness as a step toward 6G.
As the 6G rollout approaches, IT teams should prioritize strengthening their network infrastructure. Recommendations include implementing zero-trust architectures, enhancing API governance, and preparing for post-quantum cryptography. Proactive infrastructure management will help avoid costly overhauls as technology evolves.
