6G wireless networks and terahertz communications: Intelligent reflecting surfaces, MIMO, and Energy-Efficient IoT architectures

Bahangulu, Julien Kiesse (2025) 6G wireless networks and terahertz communications: Intelligent reflecting surfaces, MIMO, and Energy-Efficient IoT architectures. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 25 (2). pp. 1712-1736. ISSN 2581-9615

The advent of 6G wireless networks marks a paradigm shift in wireless communication, aiming to achieve unprecedented data rates, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity. As the demand for high-speed and energy-efficient networks grows, Terahertz (THz) communications has emerged as a viable solution to address spectrum congestion and enhance wireless capacity. However, the implementation of THz communication presents challenges, including high path loss, signal attenuation, and energy efficiency concerns. To mitigate these limitations, Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS), Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), and advanced Internet of Things (IoT) architectures are being integrated into 6G frameworks to optimize performance. Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS) utilize reconfigurable metasurfaces to dynamically control signal propagation, improving coverage and mitigating path loss in high-frequency bands. Meanwhile, Massive MIMO enhances spectral efficiency and network robustness by leveraging large antenna arrays to enable precise beamforming and spatial multiplexing. Furthermore, energy-efficient IoT architectures are crucial in 6G networks to support ultra-low power, sustainable, and scalable communication for interconnected devices. These architectures leverage machine learning, edge computing, and blockchain technology to optimize resource allocation and reduce energy consumption. By combining IRS, MIMO, and advanced IoT architectures, 6G networks can harness the potential of THz communication while overcoming its limitations. This convergence will facilitate next-generation applications such as immersive extended reality (XR), autonomous systems, and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC). Future research should focus on seamless integration, security, and sustainability in 6G-enabled THz networks to achieve a truly intelligent and energy-efficient wireless ecosystem.