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Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications
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Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2025) | Viewed by 13029

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Mirosław Klinkowski

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Central Chamber for Telecommunication Metrology (Z-12), National Institute of Telecommunications, 04-894 Warsaw, Poland
Interests: modeling and optimization of communication networks; optical networking; 5G/6G XHaul transport networks
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The rapid evolution of communication networks continues to revolutionize how individuals, businesses, and societies interact and operate. This Special Issue aims to capture cutting-edge innovation and research in communication networks, from the underlying technologies and methodologies to their diverse applications. We invite researchers and practitioners from across the globe to share their latest findings, insights, and perspectives in this dynamic field. Both theoretical and experimental studies related to the physical, network, and application layers are welcome, as well as comprehensive review and survey papers. The scope of this Special Issue includes, but is not limited to, the following topics:

  1. Optical Networks: Advances in optical communication technologies, architectures, and protocols.
  2. Wireless Networks: Next-generation wireless communication systems, including 5G and beyond.
  3. Network Optimization: Techniques for optimizing network performance, resource allocation, and energy efficiency.
  4. 5G and Beyond: Emerging technologies, standards, and applications in the era of 5G and beyond.
  5. Internet of Things (IoT): Communication protocols, architectures, and applications for IoT networks.
  6. Machine Learning and AI in Networks: Applications of machine learning and artificial intelligence in network design, management, and security.
  7. Network Security and Privacy: Methods for ensuring the security and privacy of communication networks.
  8. Cloud and Edge Computing: Integration of cloud and edge computing in network infrastructures.

Dr. Mirosław Klinkowski
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • optical networks
  • wireless communication
  • 5G/6G technologies and applications
  • access, aggregation, and core networks
  • cloud computing
  • edge computing
  • data-center networking
  • network security
  • network optimization
  • machine learning and data analytics in networks

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

41 pages, 3980 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of Wi-Fi 6 Migration on QoS/QoE: A Campus Case Study
by Leire Cristobo, Luis Zabala, Eva Ibarrola and Armando Ferro
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 2323; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16052323 - 27 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 816
Abstract
Wi-Fi networks face increasing pressure due to the rapid growth in the number of connected devices, the diversity of applications, and rising user expectations. Managing quality of service (QoS) in such complex environments requires a holistic approach. This study validates a machine learning [...] Read more.
Wi-Fi networks face increasing pressure due to the rapid growth in the number of connected devices, the diversity of applications, and rising user expectations. Managing quality of service (QoS) in such complex environments requires a holistic approach. This study validates a machine learning (ML)-based methodology for comprehensive quality of X (QoX) management, integrating quality of service (QoS), quality of experience (QoE), and quality of business (QoBiz). The approach was evaluated during the migration of the Eduroam Wi-Fi network at the University of the Basque Country (EHU) from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6. Traffic patterns, protocol adoption, performance indicators, and user feedback were analyzed before and after the migration to identify the key quality indicators (KQIs) and to assess the scalability, consistency, and effectiveness of the proposed methodology. Results show that the ML-driven QoX management methodology applied during the migration process enables adaptive, efficient, and user-centric network management. The consistency of improvements across Wi-Fi generations confirms the robustness and scalability of the method for continuous optimization in dynamic wireless environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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29 pages, 2699 KB  
Article
Atmospheric Aerial Optical Links: Assessing Channel Constraints for Stable Long-Range Communications—A Historical Perspective
by Fabrizio Gerardi and Silvello Betti
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16021054 - 20 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 690
Abstract
New-generation communications aim for ubiquitous and pervasive communications with high data rates. Electromagnetic spectrum saturation and increasing data volumes can employ the use of free-space optical communication to ease capacity loads in modern networks. In this writing, we review the impact of the [...] Read more.
New-generation communications aim for ubiquitous and pervasive communications with high data rates. Electromagnetic spectrum saturation and increasing data volumes can employ the use of free-space optical communication to ease capacity loads in modern networks. In this writing, we review the impact of the atmospheric channel on the optical signal dynamics for long-range data links between high-speed and maneuverability suborbital platforms in full atmosphere. This work presents the main propagation constraints, such as path loss, turbulence, and aero-optics, which are environment-dependent and geometry-dependent for this worst-case scenario. To carry out our study, we recall experimental results collected in the literature since the early times, showing system constraints and performance limits. This provides a historical timeline perspective. Theoretical models and channel management techniques that appeared through time are briefly summarized, and their impact on link budget and stability on reference link geometries is addressed through analytical simulation. In conclusion, this paper shows that an integrated approach to this kind of link is successful mainly with a convergence of mitigation techniques and tailored engineering, which cannot neglect the knowledge of the operating environment and strongly relies on accurate physics modeling, which remains an area of active open research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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26 pages, 1273 KB  
Article
Digital Twin-Driven Virtual Network Architecture for Enhanced Extended Reality Capabilities
by Xavier Calle-Heredia and Xavier Hesselbach
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(22), 10352; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210352 - 11 Nov 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3600
Abstract
Extended Reality (XR) technology is proposed as a key enabler for the development of immersive applications, thus transforming the way users interact within digital environments. In communication networks, XR will be able to introduce immersive network functions with the potential to enhance the [...] Read more.
Extended Reality (XR) technology is proposed as a key enabler for the development of immersive applications, thus transforming the way users interact within digital environments. In communication networks, XR will be able to introduce immersive network functions with the potential to enhance the network experience. This paper proposes a comprehensive architectural framework designed to support the deployment of XR Functions (XRFs) within a Digital Twin Network (DTN) environment in order to provide immersive functions of any type, including control and management functions, that are not available in the original network. The proposal can be deployed in relevant fields where digital twins are promising, such as medical applications, surveillance systems, autonomous driving and space communications. The proposed architecture must consider the need for minimal hardware and software resources, along with a network topological configuration with the objective of providing a robust yet lightweight framework, allowing devices with limited computing power, such as smartphones and laptops, to benefit from the enhanced network functionalities provided in the Digital Twin Network, without affecting the original network (ON). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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13 pages, 635 KB  
Article
A Study of Transmission Point Selection for Multi-Connectivity in Multi-Band Wireless Networks
by Eunkyung Kim, Dongwan Kim and Changbeom Choi
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(22), 10256; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210256 - 7 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1629
Abstract
In 5th generation mobile communication networks, the frequency band of the millimeter band of 30–100 GHz is supported to provide a transmission speed of 20 Gbps or higher. Furthermore, a huge transmission capacity, i.e., up to 1 Tbps, is one of the main [...] Read more.
In 5th generation mobile communication networks, the frequency band of the millimeter band of 30–100 GHz is supported to provide a transmission speed of 20 Gbps or higher. Furthermore, a huge transmission capacity, i.e., up to 1 Tbps, is one of the main requirements for the 6th generation mobile communication networks. In order to meet this requirement, the terahertz band is considered a new service band. Hence, we consider multi-band network environments, serving the sub-6Hz band, mmWave band, and additionally sub-terahertz band. Furthermore, we introduce the transmission point selection criteria with multiple connections for efficient multi-connectivity operation in a multi-band network environment, serving and receiving multiple connections from those bands at the same time. We also propose a point selection algorithm based on the selection criteria, e.g., achievable data rate. The proposed point selection algorithm attains lower computational complexity with a 2-approximation of the optimal solution. Our simulation results, applying the channel environment and beamforming in practical environments defined by 3GPP, show that selecting and serving multiple transmission points regardless of frequency band performs better than services through single-connectivity operation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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18 pages, 12992 KB  
Article
Evaluating a Multidisciplinary Model for Managing Human Uncertainty in 5G Cyber–Physical–Social Systems
by Nestor Alzate Mejia, Jordi Perelló, Germán Santos-Boada and José Roberto de Almeida-Amazonas
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(19), 8786; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14198786 - 29 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1308
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the previously introduced multidisciplinary model to quantify human uncertainty (MMtQHU) within a realistic 5G-enabled cyber–physical–social systems (CPSS) environment. The MMtQHU, which integrates human, social, and environmental factors into CPSS modeling, is applied to the Ingolstadt traffic [...] Read more.
This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the previously introduced multidisciplinary model to quantify human uncertainty (MMtQHU) within a realistic 5G-enabled cyber–physical–social systems (CPSS) environment. The MMtQHU, which integrates human, social, and environmental factors into CPSS modeling, is applied to the Ingolstadt traffic scenario (InTAS), a detailed urban simulation reflecting high-traffic conditions. By modeling unpredictable driver behaviors, such as deviations from optimal routes, the study assesses the model’s effectiveness in managing human-induced uncertainties in vehicle-for-hire (VFH) applications. The evaluation shows that human uncertainty significantly impacts 5G network resource allocation and traffic dynamics. A comparative analysis of traditional resource allocation methods reveals their limitations in handling the dynamic nature of human behavior. These findings underscore the necessity for advanced, adaptive strategies, potentially leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the resilience and efficiency of 5G networks in CPSS environments. The study offers valuable insights for future advancements in robust and adaptive 5G infrastructure by highlighting the critical role of integrating human behavior into CPSS models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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26 pages, 4859 KB  
Article
A Price-and-Branch Algorithm for Network Slice Optimization in Packet-Switched Xhaul Access Networks
by Mirosław Klinkowski
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5608; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135608 - 27 Jun 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1798
Abstract
Network slicing is a concept introduced in 5G networks that supports the provisioning of multiple types of mobile services with diversified quality of service (QoS) requirements in a shared network. Network slicing concerns the placement/allocation of radio processing resources and traffic flow transport [...] Read more.
Network slicing is a concept introduced in 5G networks that supports the provisioning of multiple types of mobile services with diversified quality of service (QoS) requirements in a shared network. Network slicing concerns the placement/allocation of radio processing resources and traffic flow transport over the Xhaul transport network—connecting the 5G radio access network (RAN) elements—for multiple services while ensuring the slices’ isolation and fulfilling specific service requirements. This work focuses on modeling and optimizing network slicing in packet-switched Xhaul networks, a cost-effective, flexible, and scalable transport solution in 5G RANs. The considered network scenario assumes two types of network slices related to enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC) services. We formulate a network slicing planning optimization problem and model it as a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) problem. Moreover, we develop an efficient price-and-branch algorithm (PBA) based on column generation (CG). This advanced optimization technique allows for overcoming the MILP model’s poor performance when solving larger network problem instances. Using extensive numerical experiments, we show the advantages of the PBA regarding the quality of the solutions obtained and the computation times, and analyze the packet-switched Xhaul network’s performance in various network slicing scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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16 pages, 411 KB  
Article
Dynamic Link Metric Selection for Traffic Aggregation and Multipath Transmission in Software-Defined Networks
by Grzegorz Rzym, Zbigniew Duliński and Piotr Chołda
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5312; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125312 - 19 Jun 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1714
Abstract
Software-defined networks (SDNs) are expanding their presence beyond laboratories, campus networks, ISPs, and data centre networks, moving into various domains. Although originally designed for campus networks, SDNs face scalability challenges, especially with the use of OpenFlow. Addressing these challenges requires innovative traffic management [...] Read more.
Software-defined networks (SDNs) are expanding their presence beyond laboratories, campus networks, ISPs, and data centre networks, moving into various domains. Although originally designed for campus networks, SDNs face scalability challenges, especially with the use of OpenFlow. Addressing these challenges requires innovative traffic management mechanisms to efficiently handle the growing number of connected devices and the increasing volume of traffic from various types of applications. This article proposes an innovative method for link weight selection that incorporates multipath transmission and flow aggregation in the SDNs. This novel approach improves resource utilization in two key ways. First, it involves the preservation of bandwidth during congestion. Second, it minimizes internal resource usage, as illustrated by a reduction in the number of table entries in switches. Resources undergo optimization through the introduction of a novel mechanism for flow aggregation. This novel mechanism, coupled with multipath transmission, enables adaptive responses to dynamic changes in network conditions. The aggregation process leads to a reduced number of flow entries in the core switches compared to the conventional operation of OpenFlow. The proposed scenarios for link weight allocation allow for a reduction in the number of entries in the core switches by up to 99%. The application of the proposed method also results in an increase of 58% in traffic transmission. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication Networks: From Technology, Methods to Applications)
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