M2M Communications in 5G: State-of-the-Art Architecture, Recent Advances, and Research Challenges

M2M communication offers ubiquitous applications and is one of the leading facilitators of the Internet of Things paradigm. Unlike human-tohuman communication, distinct features of M2M traffic necessitates specialized and interoperable communication technologies. However, most existing solutions offering wired or wireless connectivity have limitations that hinder widespread horizons of M2M applications. To cope with the peculiar nature of M2M traffic, the evolving 5G system considers the integration of key enabling networking technologies for ubiquitous connectivity and guaranteed QoS. This study outlines the state-of-the-art architecture, recent advances, and open research challenges in communication technologies for M2M. Also, an overview of considerable architectural enhancements and novel techniques expected in 5G networks is presented, followed by the resultant services and benefits for M2M communications.