A Survey on 5G/6G Radio Access Networks: Technologies, Protocols, and Performance Metrics

Abstract

There will be revolutionary improvements to data throughput, latency, dependability and device connectivity with 6G next generation of mobile networks, which will replace 5G. Utilizing millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies, network slicing, software-defined networking (SDN/NFV), and massively multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) 5G networks deliver low-latency, dependable, and peak data rates of up to 10 Gbps. The creation of 6G networks, however, is required by new uses, including holographic communication, tactile internet, and autonomous systems powered by artificial intelligence. By combining terrestrial, satellite, and underwater networks, 6G aspires to achieve microsecond-level latency, the lowest possible latency, accomplish peak data speeds of 1 Tbps, and provide ubiquitous global coverage. Enabling technologies such as terahertz communications, beamforming, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, full-duplex transmission, Open/Cloud RAN, and edge computing are central to meeting these ambitious targets. Furthermore, AI-driven protocols, predictive resource management, and sustainable network practices will enhance Quality of Experience (QoE), Quality of Service (QoS), and Quality of Life (QoL) while maintaining cost efficiency, scalability, and energy optimization. This review presents a comprehensive examination of the fundamentals, protocols, architectures, next-generation wireless systems, paving the way with enabling technologies and performance measures of 5G and 6G RAN.