APQN 2027 welcomes submissions for both innovative and unpublished research articles and Systemization of Knowledge (SoK) papers that discuss the connections between distributed network planning, quantum-resistant cryptography, PETs, and autonomous AI algorithms. All papers will have to address how their cryptographic and/or AI component operates in the distributed next-generation infrastructure.
Topics of Interest:
Theme A: Next-Generation Network Architecture Design, Planning, and Implementation
Algorithms for multilayered resource allocation, cross-layer optimization, and spectral efficiency in 6G and Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN)
Routing, handover, and connection planning in Space-Air-Ground-Sea Integrated Network (SAGSIN)
Managing challenges posed by asynchronous state synchronization, line rate processing, and overhead issues with respect to SD-WAN and ICN architectures.
Routing and configuration algorithms for vehicular, flying, and other types of ad-hoc and mesh networks such as Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) and Flying Ad-hoc Networks (FANETs)
Theme B: Quantum-Safe Security and Privacy-Enhancing Technologies
Frameworks and protocols to deploy PQC within traditional network stacks (e.g., TLS, IPsec, DNSSEC) without compromising high-performance operation.
Algorithms for routing keys and distributing resources within distributed quantum networks using Quantum Cryptography
FHE and MPC enhancing techniques to secure data-in-transit through bandwidth-limited distributed systems.
Zero-Knowledge Proof technologies to provide decentralized identity management, routing validity, and compliance checking.
Theme C: Artificial Intelligence and Agentic AI for Network Autonomy
Autonomous architectures with capability of localized decision making, planning and tool use to autonomously control network resources with and without digital twins
Agentic AI and multi-agent systems for live threat detection, automated micro-segmentation, and incident mitigation at distributed nodes.
Predictive DL techniques for proactive load balancing, network adaptations based on intent, and congestion avoidance
Securing agentic AI models from attacks such as poisoning, evasion, and command injections on autonomous network controllers.
Important Dates
Workshop Paper Submission Deadline: September 1, 2026
Acceptance Notification of Workshop Papers: October 15, 2026
Camera-Ready Papers Due: October 29, 2026
Workshop Date: [TBA]