RS-Assisted Wireless Communication: Use Cases, Benefits, and Integration

Abstract

Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS) are gaining recognition as a passive, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution designed to tackle the challenges of high complexity, elevated hardware costs, and increased energy consumption in future wireless networks. These networks are expected to provide expansive connectivity services to an evergrowing number of devices globally. This paper outlines the benefits of IRS technology over alternative solutions and showcases the potential of IRS-assisted wireless communication in novel scenarios when integrated with complementary technologies. Specifically, it explores the application of IRS in relay scenarios, detailing how this approach can enhance the physical layer security of communication systems.