## 1 Introduction
Big data analytics can process and analyze the massive amounts of data collected by IoT devices, providing insights into the performance of MGs and identifying areas for improvement. Blockchain technology offers a secure and transparent method for managing transactions in MGs, ensuring that energy transactions are executed efficiently and securely. AI is being used to optimize microgrid performance, reduce costs, and enhance grid stability. Digital twin technology enables the creation of a virtual replica of a microgrid, which can be used for simulation and testing purposes, enhancing the design and operation of MGs [22]. Cloud computing provides a platform for the integration of various digital technologies, enabling the efficient management of MGs. Augmented reality is also being explored as a tool for enhancing the visualization and monitoring of MGs. As MGs become more digitalized, the threat of cyberattacks also increases. Cybersecurity is, therefore, a critical concern for the operation and management of MGs. Threats to microgrid cybersecurity include unauthorized access to microgrid systems, data breaches, and malicious attacks on microgrid control systems [26, 27]. Vulnerability assessments and risk analysis are essential tools for identifying potential cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities in microgrid systems. Cybersecurity strategies such as access control, data encryption, and firewalls can be implemented to protect MGs from cyberattacks. Incident response and recovery plans should also be emplaced to ensure a quick response in case of a cyberattack. Despite the potential benefits of digitalization, there are still several barriers and challenges to its implementation in MGs. One of the primary challenges is the high cost of implementing digital technologies in MGs. Additionally, the lack of standardization and interoperability between different digital technologies can make their integration challenging. The complexity of digital technologies can also make their implementation and management difficult [28; 29; 30]. Finally, there are concerns regarding the security and privacy of data collected by digital technologies in MGs. In conclusion, the digitalization of MGs offers significant opportunities for enhancing their performance, resilience, and stability. With this motivation, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge on the design, operation, and digitalization of MGs. The selected scientific databases, including IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, Elsevier, MDPI, ACM Digital Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were utilized to access a diverse range of scholarly articles, conference papers, theses, and other academic resources. The paper begins by providing an overview of the background of MGs, including their definition, historical development, benefits, and challenges. Subsequently, the paper delves into the design and operation of MGs, including their components, configurations, control and management strategies, optimization techniques, stability, and resilience. The paper then explores the digitalization of MGs, examining the role of advanced technologies in enhancing the performance of MGs, and cybersecurity issues that may arise in the process. Finally, the paper identifies barriers and challenges in the digitalization of MGs and outlines future directions for research in this area. Overall, this paper provides valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in the future of MGs and the role of advanced technologies in their digitalization.