CONFIDENTIAL6G: Confidential Computing and Privacy-preserving Technologies for 6G

The CONFIDENTIAL6G project is a forward-thinking initiative funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program. Running from January 2023 to December 2025, the project focuses on developing secure, quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions for the next-generation 6G network. It aims to create tools, libraries, and architectural frameworks that ensure confidentiality across the cloud-edge continuum, protecting sensitive data and processes from current and future threats.

CONFIDENTIAL6G is designed to prepare for the challenges of a hyper-connected future. As quantum computing grows closer to reality, it poses significant risks to current encryption methods. This project addresses these risks by developing advanced cryptographic techniques that combine innovative hardware and software solutions. By building a strong framework for private computation, CONFIDENTIAL6G is setting the stage for secure operations in the 6G era, ensuring resilience against evolving cyber threats.

At the heart of CONFIDENTIAL6G are three key pillars: cryptography, confidential computing, and secure networking. The project introduces cryptographic tools like fully homomorphic encryption (FHE), secure multi-party computation (SMPC), and trusted execution environments (TEEs). It supports privacy-preserving technologies such as zero-knowledge proofs and secure distributed ledger systems. In addition, the project develops confidential networking solutions, including post-quantum secure protocols, secure data sharing, and federated AI/ML orchestration. Together, these pillars create a foundation for secure and collaborative computing in 6G.

One of CONFIDENTIAL6G's significant early achievements is an in-depth analysis of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, which will form the backbone of secure 6G networks. The project has also made advancements in quantum-safe networking protocols and federated AI/ML orchestration mechanisms. By designing trusted execution environments and leveraging zero-knowledge proofs, CONFIDENTIAL6G has enabled verifiable computations and secure data sharing. These innovations are supported by blockchain-based solutions for privacy and access control, providing strong defenses against future quantum and cyber threats.

The CONFIDENTIAL6G project showcases the power of collaboration between researchers, industry experts, and technology innovators. By addressing critical challenges in cryptography, distributed systems, and AI, the project is creating a secure foundation for the 6G era. With its focus on quantum-resistant technologies and privacy-preserving frameworks, CONFIDENTIAL6G ensures that 6G networks are not only highly efficient and collaborative but also built on trust and security. This initiative is paving the way for a safer and more connected digital future.

At the recent Hexa-X-II workshop on Architecture and Standards, Vera Stavroulaki from WINGS ICT presented the latest update on the project. Her talk is embedded below and the slides are available here.

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