Enhancing IoT Security with Quantum Key Distribution: A Novel Approach

This paper analyzes the performance of two quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols, SARG04 and BB84, under different random quantum noise levels. It also looks at the protocols’ potential applications in Internet of Things (IoT) device security for a proposed architecture. In the proposed model, long-range photons are inherently vulnerable to quantum noise, which complicates real-world QKD implementations and jeopardizes the reliability and resilience of the secret key generation process. By simulating different noise situations, we evaluate the overall security performance, mistake rates, and key generation rates of the BB84 and SARG04 protocols. Our findings suggest that although both protocols can withstand moderate noise levels, SARG04 and BB84 perform similarly regarding secure key length. We also address the consequences of these results for the security of the Internet of Things, highlighting QKD’s role in minimizing vulnerabilities related to conventional cryptography techniques. QKD integration can improve data security and privacy in Internet of Things frameworks, offering a viable way to protect sensitive data in increasingly networked devices. This work significantly contributes to the current efforts in quantum cryptography research by providing insightful advice on protocol selection and secure IoT connectivity implementation techniques.