## 6 Open Challenges, Future Prospects and Research Directions
### Optimizing Technology Integration  
The synergy between FSO and alternative technologies will allow for redundancy and resilience in communication networks. This flexibility will be vital in applications requiring uninterrupted service, such as critical communications for emergency services and real-time data transmission for autonomous vehicles. One way to achieve this is by implementing advanced handover protocols and algorithms to enhance the reliability of hybrid systems. Seamless Handover Mechanisms: Future research will focus on developing seamless handover mechanisms between hybrid FSO systems and complementary communication technologies, such as RF and microwave links. Achieving smooth transitions between different transmission mediums is critical for maintaining continuous connectivity, particularly in mobile scenarios. By implementing advanced handover protocols and algorithms, hybrid systems can automatically switch between FSO and RF links based on real-time assessments of signal quality, distance, and atmospheric conditions. This ensures uninterrupted service, even in challenging environments. Enhanced Reliability and Resilience: Improving the reliability of hybrid systems is essential, especially in the face of AT and link blockages. Future studies will explore the integration of robust error correction methods and adaptive modulation techniques that can respond dynamically to environmental fluctuations. The use of intelligent algorithms to assess real-time conditions and adjust transmission parameters accordingly will be crucial. For instance, adaptive modulation schemes can vary the modulation format and coding rate based on current channel conditions, enhancing data throughput while minimizing errors. Innovations in Adaptive Modulation and Beam Steering  
Innovations in adaptive modulation are crucial for maximizing the performance of hybrid FSO systems. Beam steering technology is another critical area of development. Adaptive Modulation Techniques: By employing techniques that can dynamically adjust modulation schemes depending on the quality of the communication link, these systems can optimize data rates and reliability. Future research may focus on integratingML algorithms to predict optimal modulation schemes based on historical and real-time data, enabling systems to adapt more effectively to varying conditions. Advanced Beam Steering Solutions: Future hybrid FSO systems will benefit from advanced beam steering mechanisms that enhance the alignment of the optical beam, compensating for the effects of turbulence and movement. Techniques such as phased array systems and smart optics can be employed to achieve high-precision steering, ensuring that the optical signal remains focused on the intended Rx. The integration of intelligent beam steering algorithms will allow these systems to respond to environmental changes dynamically, further improving performance. As hybrid FSO systems become more prevalent, intelligent network management will be essential to optimize resource allocation and enhance overall network performance. Also, ensuring QoS is paramount in hybrid FSO systems, especially as user demands for high-speed, low-latency communication increase. Smart Network Orchestration: Future research will likely focus on developing advanced orchestration algorithms that can analyze network traffic, device connectivity, and environmental conditions to optimize the distribution of data across different transmission mediums. This will involve the employment of AI and ML techniques to create predictive models that facilitate efficient network management and minimize latency. Quality-of-Service Enhancements: Future research will explore QoS management techniques that prioritize traffic based on application requirements, ensuring that critical applications such as real-time video conferencing and remote surgery receive the necessary bandwidth and reliability. These enhancements will be vital for supporting a diverse range of applications across hybrid communication networks.