Quantum Cryptography for Secure Wireless Communication Networks

Abstract

The increasing number of wireless communication networks has created additional concerns in the field of secure data transmission. Problems abound when dealing with both contemporary and future quantum-enabled attackers. With the advancement of technology, adversaries have an easier time breaking classical cryptographic system, arguably the most prominent example being their adoption in the daily use of cell phones. Adding to the risk is the coming quantum computer era, which would render an even greater body of classical techniques obsolete. The very same resplendent security that quantum cryptography promises is achieved through the application of quantum mechanics principles (“super position” and “entanglement”). This paper attempts to tackle incorporating quantum cryptographic methods into wireless communication systems, focusing primarily on adapting mobility, resources, and channel noise constraints. Performance comparisons were made between standard wireless architectures and quantum-secured counterparts to assess the value-added by quantum techniques. Results from simulations suggest that quantum methods of cryptography maintain desirable levels of latency while greatly improving confidentiality and the integrity of the data yielding these methods more certainties, they are suitable for advanced systems of secure communications.