Integer-Based Homomorphic Encryption: Evaluation and FPGA Performance Enhancements

In this paper, we provide a thorough literature review on the field of integer homomorphic encryption when it is incorporated into FPGAs. Homomorphic encryption allows one to perform operations on ciphertexts and get results, that, when decrypted, match the outcome of operations performed on the plaintexts. First, different integer-based homomorphic encryption schemes are investigated, namely their efficiencies in implementation, their security, and compatibility with FPGA architecture. Finally, a comparative analysis table is presented that indicates some important parameters such as the encryption and decryption rates, resources needed, and the adaptability of each scheme. This survey is therefore intended to help researchers and practitioners make correct decisions on the integer homomorphic encryption designs that are suitable for their respective FPGA applications, given the increasing demand for secure data processing services in cloud computing and other environments where sensitive data is handled.