Next-Gen SDN Security: Quantum Keying Meets AI Analytics

This paper suggests a complete security architecture that blends quantum key distribution (QKD) with cutting-edge machine learning methods to improve the Software-Defined Networking (SDN) control plane. By creating secure channels of communication through QKD, the framework ensures integrity and secrecy of control messages between the SDN controller and network devices. Furthermore, network traffic is continuously monitored and analyzed using machine learning techniques, enabling the detection of unusual behaviors that might be warning signs of upcoming security problems. Tests utilizing Mininet as the network interface and Open Daylight as the SDN controller proved the efficacy of the suggested method. The outcomes revealed a minimal computational overhead, exceptional detection accuracy up to 98.1%, and low false positive rates, substantiating the system's ability to effectively manage varied network conditions and traffic volumes. These results underscore the potential of integrating QKD with robust machine learning strategies to secure the SDN control plane against sophisticated threats.