Open Access

ARTICLE

QBIoT: A Quantum Blockchain Framework for IoT with an Improved Proof-of-Authority Consensus Algorithm and a Public-Key Quantum Signature

Ang Liu¹, Qing Zhang², Shengwei Xu^3,*, Huamin Feng⁴, Xiu-bo Chen⁵, Wen Liu¹

1 Network and Information Management Division, Beijing Electronic Science and Technology Institute, Beijing, 100070, China
2 Department of Cyberspace Security, Beijing Electronic Science and Technology Institute, Beijing, 100070, China
3 Information Security Institute, Beijing Electronic Science and Technology Institute, Beijing, 100070, China
4 General Office, Beijing Electronic Science and Technology Institute, Beijing, 100070, China
5 Information Security Center, State Key Laboratory of Networking and Switching Technology, Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Beijing, 100876, China

* Corresponding Author: Shengwei Xu. Email:

(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Security and Privacy for Blockchain-empowered Internet of Things)

Computers, Materials & Continua 2024, 80(1), 1727-1751. https://doi.org/10.32604/cmc.2024.051233

Received 01 March 2024; Accepted 06 June 2024; Issue published 18 July 2024

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network system that connects physical devices through the Internet, allowing them to interact. Nowadays, IoT has become an integral part of our lives, offering convenience and smart functionality. However, the growing number of IoT devices has brought about a corresponding increase in cybersecurity threats, such as device vulnerabilities, data privacy concerns, and network susceptibilities. Integrating blockchain technology with IoT has proven to be a promising approach to enhance IoT security. Nevertheless, the emergence of quantum computing poses a significant challenge to the security of traditional classical cryptography used in blockchain, potentially exposing it to quantum cyber-attacks. To support the growth of the IoT industry, mitigate quantum threats, and safeguard IoT data, this study proposes a robust blockchain solution for IoT that incorporates both classical and post-quantum security measures. Firstly, we present the Quantum-Enhanced Blockchain Architecture for IoT (QBIoT) to ensure secure data sharing and integrity protection. Secondly, we propose an improved Proof of Authority consensus algorithm called “Proof of Authority with Random Election” (PoARE), implemented within QBIoT for leader selection and new block creation. Thirdly, we develop a public-key quantum signature protocol for transaction verification in the blockchain. Finally, a comprehensive security analysis of QBIoT demonstrates its resilience against cyber threats from both classical and quantum adversaries. In summary, this research introduces an innovative quantum-enhanced blockchain solution to address quantum security concerns within the realm of IoT. The proposed QBIoT framework contributes to the ongoing development of quantum blockchain technology and offers valuable insights for future research on IoT security.

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