Quantum Key Distribution for Secure IoT Communication: Recent Advances, Challenges, and Future Perspectives

Abstract: The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things devices (IoT) across healthcare, smart homes, transportation, and industrial automation has led to an unprecedented exchange of sensitive data over wireless channels, exposing these networks to cyberattacks, eavesdropping, and unauthorized access. Conventional cryptographic techniques, which rely on computational hardness assumptions, are increasingly vulnerable to the emerging capabilities of quantum computing. This paper explores the application of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) as a means of enabling secure and dependable data communication for IoT devices. By exploiting the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, QKD allows two communicating parties to generate a shared secret key while inherently detecting any attempt at interception. The proposed approach aims to enhance data privacy, ensure secure authentication, preserve confidentiality, and safeguard IoT systems against present and future quantum enabled threats. The integration of quantum based security techniques into existing IoT infrastructure is examined, along with its implications for improving the reliability and trustworthiness of wireless IoT communication systems. This work positions Quantum Enhanced Secure Data Communication as a forward looking security solution for next generation IoT networks.

Keywords: Quantum Key Distribution, Internet of Things, Quantum Internet of Things, Post Quantum Cryptography, BB84 protocol, Quantum Cryptography Framework.