Quantum Secured Photonic Computing System
Research Summary
Demonstrates a quantum-secured communication system implementing BB84 key distribution and a Hadamard-gate quantum random number generator in Qiskit, paired with AES-256-GCM encryption and an ESP32 hardware prototype that flags eavesdropping via quantum bit-error-rate spikes.
Abstract
Conventional cryptographic systems that rely on mathematical complexities are threatened by advances in quantum computing. This research presents a quantum-secured photonic computing system that addresses the vulnerabilities by using quantum mechanical principles for key generation and distribution. While full photonic implementation requires specialized optical components, this paper demonstrates a functionally equivalent computational system using quantum simulations. Using IBM's Qiskit framework, combined with AES-256-GCM authenticated encryption for data communication, the proposed system implements BB84 Quantum Key Distribution. A Quantum Random Number Generator based on the Hadamard gate provides true randomness. Through Quantum Bit Error Rate (QBER) monitoring, the system achieves security by detecting eavesdropping attempts. When an attacker performs an intrusion, the QBER spikes to approximately 25%, resulting in immediate key rejection. This project consists of a software simulation with an interactive dashboard along with a hardware prototype using two ESP32 microcontrollers with voice input and OLED displays. This paper demonstrates the feasibility of executing quantum-secured communication systems on embedded platforms.
Full Paper (PDF)
Read the complete peer-reviewed paper below, or open the PDF in a new tab.