A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security

Abel Channie Demeke

doi:doi:10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security

Abel Channie Demeke^*

Published in Science Discovery Physics (Volume 1, Issue 1)

Received: 22 December 2025 Accepted: 13 January 2026 Published: 9 February 2026

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Abstract

With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, traditional cryptographic techniques are at risk of devolution, necessitating quantum-resilient alternatives for future communication networks. This systematic literature review evaluates the role of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in enhancing the security of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communications. Employing the PRISMA methodology, 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were identified and analyzed. The review addresses three key research questions: the identification of QKD protocols applicable to 6G, challenges in their integration, and proposed solutions for seamless deployment. Findings reveal that protocols such as BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and MDI-QKD, transmitted via optical fiber and satellite channels, offer promising security guarantees. This review concludes that while QKD can significantly strengthen 6G communications against quantum threats, further interdisciplinary efforts in hardware development, standardization, and pilot implementations are essential. The study offers valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers working toward secure, quantum-resistant future networks. The study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search was conducted across major scientific databases, including IEEE Xplore, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and arXiv, using well-defined keywords and Boolean search strategies related to QKD, 6G networks, and quantum communication security. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were selected for detailed analysis. The selected literature was systematically classified to address three primary research questions: (i) identification of QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks, (ii) challenges hindering the integration of QKD into 6G architectures, and (iii) solutions and frameworks proposed to facilitate practical deployment. The findings reveal that prominent QKD protocols, including BB84, E91, Continuous-Variable QKD (CV-QKD), and Measurement-Device-Independent QKD (MDI-QKD), demonstrate strong potential for securing 6G communications when deployed over optical fiber and satellite-based channels. However, practical integration faces significant challenges such as scalability limitations, synchronization issues, quantum channel coexistence with classical networks, hardware complexity, and high deployment costs. The review further highlights emerging solutions that leverage Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), blockchain-based key management, and hybrid classical-quantum security architectures to overcome these obstacles. Ongoing standardization efforts by organizations such as NIST, ETSI, and ITU-T are also identified as critical enablers for real-world adoption .

Published in	Science Discovery Physics (Volume 1, Issue 1)
DOI	10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12
Page(s)	29-35
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), 6G Communication Security, Post-Quantum Cryptography, Quantum-Resilient Networks

1. Introduction

A paradigm change in processing power, quantum computing poses a challenge to the traditional encryption techniques that are still frequently employed in modern communication networks. By guaranteeing the creation and exchange of cryptographic keys in a way that is theoretically unbreakable, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which makes use of the concepts of quantum physics, provides a safe substitute. Integrating QKD is becoming more and more important as we move toward the sixth generation (6G) of wireless communication networks, which are distinguished by extremely low latency, extensive connection, and increased security requirements. The present status, difficulties, and prospects of QKD in guaranteeing secure 6G communications are evaluated in this review.

1.1. Motivation

Future communication systems' security frameworks need to be reevaluated in light of the quantum computing industry's explosive growth. Sensitive applications like remote surgery, driverless cars, and smart city infrastructure should be supported by 6G. In the face of quantum attacks, conventional cryptographic methods might become outdated, which makes QKD a viable option for securing networks in the future.

1.2. Scope

The architectures, integration difficulties, performance measurements, and security assurances of QKD technologies that are pertinent to 6G are all examined in this paper. Additionally, it assesses research patterns and suggested remedies aimed at removing obstacles to integration.

1.3. Significance

This review aids in the development of safe, quantum-resilient communication infrastructures by evaluating the incorporation of QKD into 6G networks. It helps policymakers, engineers, and researchers create reliable systems that counteract emerging cybersecurity risks.

1.4. Research Questions

RQ1 What are the primary QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks? RQ 2 What challenges hinder the integration of QKD into 6G architectures?

RQ 3 What solutions have been proposed or implemented to facilitate QKD deployment in 6G?

1.5. Objectives

1.5.1. General Objective

To evaluate the role of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in securing 6G communication networks.

1.5.2. Specific Objectives

1) To identify current QKD technologies suitable for 6G

2) To analyze the limitations and integration challenges

3) To review proposed frameworks and models for QKD-6G integration

4) To suggest future research directions for seamless QKD deployment in 6G

2. Literature Review

2.1. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

Through protocols like BB84 and E91, QKD allows two parties to use quantum states to generate shared secret keys. A thorough summary of real-world QKD problems is given by Diamanti et al. (2016)

[1]

. To further improve security, Primaatmaja et al. (2022) investigate device-independent QKD

[2]

2.2. 6G Network Architecture

6G will combine ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC), terahertz communication, and artificial intelligence. According to Huawei (2024), a crucial component of the 6G security architecture is native trustworthiness

[3, 10-12]

2.3. Integration of QKD in 6G Network

In their discussion of quantum technology applications in 6G, Zeydan et al. (2025) highlight the viability of QKD for fast, secure communications

[4]

. Useful approaches for incorporating QKD into disaggregated 6G networks are described by the CTTC project

[5]

Furthermore, the integration of space-air-ground-sea networks presents unique security challenges and opportunities for QKD deployment

[36]

2.4. Key Challenges

Challenges include scalability, standardization, key rate limitations, and deployment costs. ITU- T Y. 3800 outlines standardization requirements for QKD networks

[6, 13, 16, 24]

.Challenges include scalability, standardization, key rate limitations, and deployment costs. ITU- T Y. 3800 outlines standardizationrequirements for QKD networks [6.14, 18, 276.14, 18, 27.] Connectivity in rural areas remains a significant challenge for 6G deployment.

[22]

, which also impacts the practical rollout of QKD infrastructure. Additionally, the co existence of quantum channels with classical networks introduces synchronization and interference issues.

[39]

2.5. Emerging Solutions

Dynamic QKD integration is made possible by the use of Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Research is being done on hybrid encryption that combines classical and quantum techniques.

[14-18]

3. Methodology

PRISMA standards were used in a systematic review technique. Keywords like "QKD", "6G security", and "quantum communication" were used to search databases like IEEE Xplore, SpringerLink, arXiv, and ScienceDirect. Relevance to 6G networks and peer-reviewed publication status were prerequisites for inclusion. 48 studies in all were chosen for examination. The studies include from year 2016 to 2025 May 30, 2025 based on relevance to core topics.

3.1. Step-by-Step Systematic Literature Review (SLR) Process

Step 1: Define the Review Protocol

For the title selected “Assessment of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) for Secure 6G Communications” the objectives are:

1) Identify applicable QKD protocols for 6G

2) Explore integration challenges

3) Review proposed solutions and frameworks Step 2: Frame the Research Questions (RQs)

Table 1. Research Question.

RQ #	Research Question
RQ1Research Question	What are the primary QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks?
RQ2	What challenges hinder the integration of QKD into 6G architectures?
RQ3	What solutions have been proposed or implemented to facilitate QKD deployment in 6G?

Step 3: Identify Data Sources

1) Databases used:

a) IEEE Xplore

b) SpringerLink

c) arXiv

d) ScienceDirect

Step 4: Develop a Search Strategy

2) Keywords:

a) “Quantum Key Distribution” OR “QKD”NOT”

b) “6G Security”

c) “Quantum Communication”

3) Boolean Search:

("QKD" OR "Quantum Key Distribution") AND ("6G" OR "6G Networks") AND ("Security" OR "Quantum Communication")

Step 5: Screening and Eligibility (PRISMA Framework)

Prisma process flow diagram

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 1. Prisma process flow diagram.

Table 2. Screening and Eligibility.

Stage	Count
Records identified	189
Duplicates removed	41
Title/Abstract screened	100
Full-text articles assessed	72
Studies included (final)	48

3.2. Inclusion Criteria

1) Peer-reviewed journal/conference papers

2) Focus on QKD in context of 6G network

3) English language

3.3. Exclusion Criteria

1) Not related to 6G or post quantum

2) Non-peer-reviewed (blogs, opinion pieces) Step 6: Data Extraction & Classification

Studies were reviewed and classified into the three RQs:

1) RQ1 (Protocols/Technologies): 10 studies

2) RQ2 (Challenges): 11 studies

3) RQ3 (Solutions/Frameworks): 27 studies Step 7: Data Synthesis

4) RQ1: Identified protocols include BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and measurement-device- independent (MDI) QKD. Optical fiber and satellite-based links are dominant mediums.

5) RQ2: Challenges include scalability, quantum channel integration, decoherence, and synchronization.

6) RQ3: Solutions leverage SDN/NFV, blockchain, and satellite-QKD. Global standards from NIST and ETSI are emerging.

Step 8: Abstract Screening

Objective: Ensure deep technical alignment with your specific research question. I was tried to review abstracts for:

1) Whether primary QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks.

2) Whether challenges hinder the integration of QKD into 6G architectures.

3) Whether proposed or implemented to facilitate QKD deployment in 6G.

To do so I have prepared a check list as below, even though time is very limited to go through rigorously: -

Abstract Screening Checklist

Table:-Used checklist when reading abstracts to decide whether to include a paper in your SLR:

Table 3. ScreeningCriteria.

ScreeningCriteria	Yes/No
1. Does the abstract focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?	Yes
2. Is there a clear connection to 6G communication networks?	Yes
3. Does it mention security or cryptography in the context of QKD/6G?	Yes
4. Is the work based on peer-reviewed or academic sources?	Yes
5. Is the abstract written in English?	Yes
6. Does the abstract describe methods or protocols (e.g., BB84, E91)?	Yes
7. Are there any challenges or limitations mentioned?	Yes
8. Does it offer or suggest solutions or frameworks?	Yes
9. Does it indicate practical relevance (e.g., deployment, application areas)?	Yes
10. Is it within the publication date range (e.g., 2016-2025)?	Yes

I have been used this checklist while reviewing the 48 abstracts.

4. Results

The analysis indicates an increasing trend in publications discussing QKD for 6G security. Most works focus on simulation-based feasibility, while few provide empirical deployment results. QKD shows potential in metropolitan area networks and high-value communication links.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 2. Number of Studies on QKD for 6G per Year.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 3. Distribution of Studies by Research Question Focus.

5. Discussion

Despite its theoretical security, QKD encounters practical challenges in the widespread implementation of 6G. It is still difficult to integrate quantum channels into heterogeneous networks, as key generation rates decrease with distance. Nonetheless, standardization and prototype development initiatives show promise.

Dynamic QKD integration is made possible by the use of Network FunctionVirtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Research isbeing done on hybrid encryption that combines classical and quantumtechniques.

[14, 16]

Blockchain technology is also being explored for secure key management and to enhance the trustworthiness of decentralized 6G network slices

[12, 23]

. Deep learning and AI techniques are proposed for optimizing network resource allocation and improving the efficiency of QKD-integrated systems

[41-44]

6. Findings

1) QKD can significantly enhance 6G security against quantum threats

2) Practical deployment remains limited due to physical and cost constraints

3) SDN, AI-based optimization, and standardization are key enablers for adoption

7. Future Directions

Development of quantum repeaters and satellite-based QKD.

[25-30]

Real-world pilot deployments for urban and rural 6G environments Creation of lightweight QKD solutions suitable for IoT devices

8. Conclusion

One revolutionary technology for 6G communications security is QKD. Although theoretical frameworks are well-established, cooperative innovation in hardware, network architecture, and policy-making is necessary for practical implementation. This evaluation demonstrates the potential of QKD in 6G communications network as well as its future directions.

Abbreviations

AI	Artificial Intelligence
BB84	Bennett-Brassard 1984 Protocol
CV-QKD	Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution
ETSI	European Telecommunications Standards Institute
IoT	Internet of Things
MDI-QKD	Measurement-Device-Independent Quantum Key Distribution
NFV	Network Function Virtualization
NIST	National Institute of Standards and Technology
PRISMA	Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
PQC	Post-Quantum Cryptography
QKD	Quantum Key Distribution
RQ	Research Question
SDN	Software-Defined Networking
SLR	Systematic Literature Review
6G	Sixth-Generation Wireless Communication System
URLLC	Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication

Author Contributions

Abel Channie Demeke is the sole author. The author read and approved the final manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest

There is no conflict of interest in this SLR.

Appendix: Sample Study Classification Table

Table 4. Sample Study Classification.

Study	Year	Method	RQ Focus
Diamanti et al.	2016	Theoretical	RQ1
Zeydan et al.	2025	Architecture	RQ2
Sun et al.	2019	Framework Dev	RQ3
McNeely	2024	Review	RQ3
Bedington et al.	2017	Empirical	RQ1
Guo et al.	2021	Analysis	RQ2
Mao et al.	2018	Simulation	RQ3
Ye et al.	2019	Prototype	RQ3
Kim et al.	2020	Empirical	RQ3
Tarantino et al.	2018	Architecture	RQ2

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Demeke, A. C. (2026). A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security. Science Discovery Physics, 1(1), 29-35. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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Demeke, A. C. A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security. Sci. Discov. Phys. 2026, 1(1), 29-35. doi: 10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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Demeke AC. A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security. Sci Discov Phys. 2026;1(1):29-35. doi: 10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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@article{10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12,
  author = {Abel Channie Demeke},
  title = {A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security},
  journal = {Science Discovery Physics},
  volume = {1},
  number = {1},
  pages = {29-35},
  doi = {10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.sdp.20260101.12},
  abstract = {With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, traditional cryptographic techniques are at risk of devolution, necessitating quantum-resilient alternatives for future communication networks. This systematic literature review evaluates the role of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in enhancing the security of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communications. Employing the PRISMA methodology, 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were identified and analyzed. The review addresses three key research questions: the identification of QKD protocols applicable to 6G, challenges in their integration, and proposed solutions for seamless deployment. Findings reveal that protocols such as BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and MDI-QKD, transmitted via optical fiber and satellite channels, offer promising security guarantees. This review concludes that while QKD can significantly strengthen 6G communications against quantum threats, further interdisciplinary efforts in hardware development, standardization, and pilot implementations are essential. The study offers valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers working toward secure, quantum-resistant future networks. The study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search was conducted across major scientific databases, including IEEE Xplore, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and arXiv, using well-defined keywords and Boolean search strategies related to QKD, 6G networks, and quantum communication security. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were selected for detailed analysis. The selected literature was systematically classified to address three primary research questions: (i) identification of QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks, (ii) challenges hindering the integration of QKD into 6G architectures, and (iii) solutions and frameworks proposed to facilitate practical deployment. The findings reveal that prominent QKD protocols, including BB84, E91, Continuous-Variable QKD (CV-QKD), and Measurement-Device-Independent QKD (MDI-QKD), demonstrate strong potential for securing 6G communications when deployed over optical fiber and satellite-based channels. However, practical integration faces significant challenges such as scalability limitations, synchronization issues, quantum channel coexistence with classical networks, hardware complexity, and high deployment costs. The review further highlights emerging solutions that leverage Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), blockchain-based key management, and hybrid classical-quantum security architectures to overcome these obstacles. Ongoing standardization efforts by organizations such as NIST, ETSI, and ITU-T are also identified as critical enablers for real-world adoption .},
 year = {2026}
}

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SN  - 3071-5458
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12
AB  - With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, traditional cryptographic techniques are at risk of devolution, necessitating quantum-resilient alternatives for future communication networks. This systematic literature review evaluates the role of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in enhancing the security of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communications. Employing the PRISMA methodology, 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were identified and analyzed. The review addresses three key research questions: the identification of QKD protocols applicable to 6G, challenges in their integration, and proposed solutions for seamless deployment. Findings reveal that protocols such as BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and MDI-QKD, transmitted via optical fiber and satellite channels, offer promising security guarantees. This review concludes that while QKD can significantly strengthen 6G communications against quantum threats, further interdisciplinary efforts in hardware development, standardization, and pilot implementations are essential. The study offers valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers working toward secure, quantum-resistant future networks. The study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search was conducted across major scientific databases, including IEEE Xplore, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and arXiv, using well-defined keywords and Boolean search strategies related to QKD, 6G networks, and quantum communication security. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were selected for detailed analysis. The selected literature was systematically classified to address three primary research questions: (i) identification of QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks, (ii) challenges hindering the integration of QKD into 6G architectures, and (iii) solutions and frameworks proposed to facilitate practical deployment. The findings reveal that prominent QKD protocols, including BB84, E91, Continuous-Variable QKD (CV-QKD), and Measurement-Device-Independent QKD (MDI-QKD), demonstrate strong potential for securing 6G communications when deployed over optical fiber and satellite-based channels. However, practical integration faces significant challenges such as scalability limitations, synchronization issues, quantum channel coexistence with classical networks, hardware complexity, and high deployment costs. The review further highlights emerging solutions that leverage Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), blockchain-based key management, and hybrid classical-quantum security architectures to overcome these obstacles. Ongoing standardization efforts by organizations such as NIST, ETSI, and ITU-T are also identified as critical enablers for real-world adoption .
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Abel Channie Demeke

Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia

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Demeke, A. C. (2026). A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security. Science Discovery Physics, 1(1), 29-35. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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Demeke, A. C. A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security. Sci. Discov. Phys. 2026, 1(1), 29-35. doi: 10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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Demeke AC. A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security. Sci Discov Phys. 2026;1(1):29-35. doi: 10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12

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@article{10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12,
  author = {Abel Channie Demeke},
  title = {A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security},
  journal = {Science Discovery Physics},
  volume = {1},
  number = {1},
  pages = {29-35},
  doi = {10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.sdp.20260101.12},
  abstract = {With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, traditional cryptographic techniques are at risk of devolution, necessitating quantum-resilient alternatives for future communication networks. This systematic literature review evaluates the role of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in enhancing the security of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communications. Employing the PRISMA methodology, 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were identified and analyzed. The review addresses three key research questions: the identification of QKD protocols applicable to 6G, challenges in their integration, and proposed solutions for seamless deployment. Findings reveal that protocols such as BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and MDI-QKD, transmitted via optical fiber and satellite channels, offer promising security guarantees. This review concludes that while QKD can significantly strengthen 6G communications against quantum threats, further interdisciplinary efforts in hardware development, standardization, and pilot implementations are essential. The study offers valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers working toward secure, quantum-resistant future networks. The study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search was conducted across major scientific databases, including IEEE Xplore, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and arXiv, using well-defined keywords and Boolean search strategies related to QKD, 6G networks, and quantum communication security. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were selected for detailed analysis. The selected literature was systematically classified to address three primary research questions: (i) identification of QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks, (ii) challenges hindering the integration of QKD into 6G architectures, and (iii) solutions and frameworks proposed to facilitate practical deployment. The findings reveal that prominent QKD protocols, including BB84, E91, Continuous-Variable QKD (CV-QKD), and Measurement-Device-Independent QKD (MDI-QKD), demonstrate strong potential for securing 6G communications when deployed over optical fiber and satellite-based channels. However, practical integration faces significant challenges such as scalability limitations, synchronization issues, quantum channel coexistence with classical networks, hardware complexity, and high deployment costs. The review further highlights emerging solutions that leverage Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), blockchain-based key management, and hybrid classical-quantum security architectures to overcome these obstacles. Ongoing standardization efforts by organizations such as NIST, ETSI, and ITU-T are also identified as critical enablers for real-world adoption .},
 year = {2026}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - A Systematic Literature Review: Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security
AU  - Abel Channie Demeke
Y1  - 2026/02/09
PY  - 2026
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12
T2  - Science Discovery Physics
JF  - Science Discovery Physics
JO  - Science Discovery Physics
SP  - 29
EP  - 35
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 3071-5458
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdp.20260101.12
AB  - With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, traditional cryptographic techniques are at risk of devolution, necessitating quantum-resilient alternatives for future communication networks. This systematic literature review evaluates the role of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in enhancing the security of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communications. Employing the PRISMA methodology, 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were identified and analyzed. The review addresses three key research questions: the identification of QKD protocols applicable to 6G, challenges in their integration, and proposed solutions for seamless deployment. Findings reveal that protocols such as BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and MDI-QKD, transmitted via optical fiber and satellite channels, offer promising security guarantees. This review concludes that while QKD can significantly strengthen 6G communications against quantum threats, further interdisciplinary efforts in hardware development, standardization, and pilot implementations are essential. The study offers valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers working toward secure, quantum-resistant future networks. The study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search was conducted across major scientific databases, including IEEE Xplore, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and arXiv, using well-defined keywords and Boolean search strategies related to QKD, 6G networks, and quantum communication security. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and May 2025 were selected for detailed analysis. The selected literature was systematically classified to address three primary research questions: (i) identification of QKD protocols and technologies applicable to 6G networks, (ii) challenges hindering the integration of QKD into 6G architectures, and (iii) solutions and frameworks proposed to facilitate practical deployment. The findings reveal that prominent QKD protocols, including BB84, E91, Continuous-Variable QKD (CV-QKD), and Measurement-Device-Independent QKD (MDI-QKD), demonstrate strong potential for securing 6G communications when deployed over optical fiber and satellite-based channels. However, practical integration faces significant challenges such as scalability limitations, synchronization issues, quantum channel coexistence with classical networks, hardware complexity, and high deployment costs. The review further highlights emerging solutions that leverage Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), blockchain-based key management, and hybrid classical-quantum security architectures to overcome these obstacles. Ongoing standardization efforts by organizations such as NIST, ETSI, and ITU-T are also identified as critical enablers for real-world adoption .
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