Blockchain-Driven Resource Management in Wireless Communications and Networks: Models, Approaches, and Applications

The acceleration and widespread application of wireless networks underscore the pressing need for innovative solutions in wireless resource management, with blockchain emerging as a transformative approach due to its decentralized and secure nature. Our paper provides a panorama of blockchain-driven wireless resource management and emphasizes critical aspects such as spectrum utilization, infrastructure sharing, and interference management. We analyze representative models, including optimization, game model, auction mechanism, and machine learning, with mathematical formulations for a deeper understanding of blockchain’s impact. These methodologies underpin flexible and adaptive resource allocation strategies tailored for dynamic and high-demand environments. Recognizing the challenges of integrating blockchain with wireless networks, on the one hand, we investigate advanced blockchain solutions at both Layer 1 and Layer 2 that enhance scalability and adaptability for large-scale networks. On the other hand, we also exploit networking technologies, such as virtualization, network slicing, etc., to ensure seamless compatibility with blockchain. Furthermore, through several typical application scenarios, our paper illustrates the adaptability and practical benefits of blockchain in next-generation wireless networks. At last, this survey offers significant insights into blockchain’s role and potential in the evolution of wireless communication and outlines future research directions to facilitate a seamless transition to 6G.