6G Fundamentals for Telecom Engineers

This technical white paper provides a practical introduction to 6G and the evolution from 5G-Advanced toward the ITU IMT-2030 framework. It covers the 6G vision, standardisation status, usage scenarios, capability targets, system architecture, AI-native networks, AI/ML in RAN and network operations, integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), spectrum, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), non-terrestrial networks (NTN), positioning, edge computing, digital twins, network automation, security, privacy, sustainability, and emerging research directions. The document is written for telecom engineers and technical professionals who want to understand the major technologies shaping future mobile networks. It distinguishes established technologies from active research areas and future concepts, and includes a practical research roadmap for the transition toward 6G.