Project Launched to Redefine Mobile Networks Under Disruption

Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU), Waterford, has been awarded nearly €350,000 through the prestigious Research Ireland U.S.-Ireland R&D Partnership Programme to lead a pioneering project aimed at enhancing the resilience of future mobile networks. The three-year project, titled NeTS: Small: Fungibility in Mobile Networks for Resilient 6G, is set to redefine how mobile networks operate under disruption, including cyberattacks, technical failures, and natural disasters.

Led by Dr. Indrakshi Dey, Head of the Division of Programmable Autonomous Systems (PAS) at Walton Institute, SETU, the project will explore innovative methods for increasing the adaptability and robustness of networks. It is a collaboration with Professor Nicola Marchetti of Trinity College Dublin, the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI) at Virginia Tech (VT), USA, and the Centre for Wireless Innovation (CWI) at Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) in Northern Ireland. This project, funded by Research Ireland, will advance the global conversation on future-proofing mobile communication systems.

At its core, the NeTS: Small project focuses on “fungibility”, a concept that enables mobile network components to be replaced or reconfigured seamlessly, maintaining network functionality even amid disruptions. This revolutionary approach to network management ensures that, in the event of a cyberattack, technical fault, or natural disaster, mobile networks can reconfigure themselves to maintain connectivity and reliability for users.

Dr. Dey, the Principal Investigator, emphasised the significance of the project. “We are pioneering a transformative approach to mobile network resilience. This project is not just about advancing technology; it’s a crucial step in ensuring that societies remain connected during crises.”

Dr Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research at Walton Institute, SETU says this project is just the beginning of a new era of digital connectivity. “With increasing reliance on mobile communication for everything from daily interactions to critical services, building resilient networks is paramount. This is particularly evident in the wake of recent events like Storm Eowyn, which disrupted electricity and water supplies, underlining the critical importance of robust communication systems.”

The enhanced resilience of 6G networks will have far-reaching benefits, particularly in times of crisis. The ability to sustain communication lines during disasters is crucial for emergency response teams and the public. The project will contribute to improving national security by ensuring that communication networks can withstand cyber threats and large-scale disruptions, guaranteeing secure channels for government and defence.

Technologically, NeTS: Small pushes the boundaries of mobile network capabilities, particularly with the dawn of 6G, which requires ultra-reliable and fast communications. This project promises to offer enhanced network reliability by ensuring that mobile networks continue to function effectively, even in the event of partial failure or attack.