This paper provides an introduction and overview of power system real-time data encryption under network environment, describes the encryption requirements of power system real-time data communication, and briefly introduces a new type of a security-enhanced power system data encryption scheme. The QKD-based encryptions can delivering end-to-end network security via high-speed quantum key distribution, and against sophisticated eavesdropping attacks. QKD will be a most promising way of real-time data encryption in power system in the future.
This paper provides an introduction and overview of power system real-time data encryption under network environment, describes the encryption requirements of power system real-time data communication, and briefly introduces a new type of a security-enhanced power system data encryption scheme. The QKD-based encryptions can delivering end-to-end network security via high-speed quantum key distribution, and against sophisticated eavesdropping attacks. QKD will be a most promising way of real-time data encryption in power system in the future.
The energy and power industry faces increasing data security challenges amidst its digital transformation. Databases, as the foundation of digital infrastructure, require advanced encryption techniques to safeguard sensitive information. This paper proposes a novel encryption framework, QKD-ABE, that integrates Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) with Attribute-Based Encryption (ABE) to enhance the confidentiality, integrity, and access control of power system data. QKD enables unconditional security in key distribution by leveraging quantum mechanics, effectively preventing key interception and tampering. ABE provides fine-grained access control by enforcing encryption policies based on user attributes, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access private data. The proposed scheme also demonstrates strong resistance to common security threats, including man-in-the-middle and eavesdropping attacks, through quantum measurement disturbance and Quantum Bit Error Rate (QBerr) verification. Experimental results and theoretical analysis indicate that QKD-ABE offers a secure, efficient, and scalable solution for protecting sensitive data in modern smart grid environments.
With the continuous development of power communication network and the improvement of intelligent degree, network security and operation and maintenance become more and more important. Therefore, this paper proposes a solution for intelligent security operation and maintenance of power communication network based on Quantum key distribution (QKD). QKD is an encryption technology based on the principle of quantum mechanics, which can realize secure Key exchange and resist attacks of traditional encryption algorithms. We use QKD technology to generate and distribute security keys for protecting communication and data transmission in power communication networks. The results show that the efficiency and accuracy of communication data acquisition, transmission, analysis and processing of the Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations system of the power communication network using the power Internet of Things technology are far higher than that of the traditional operation and maintenance technology, which improves the operation and maintenance accuracy of the power communication network by about 25%. The intelligent operation and maintenance system of the power communication network designed by the author, it effectively improves the communication data processing capability and the reliability of operation and maintenance results, and can meet the current practical engineering application requirements. This study provides an innovative solution for the secure operation and maintenance of power communication networks, which is of great significance for protecting the security and stable operation of power communication networks.
ABSTRACT Smart grids, as critical Internet‐of‐Things (IoT) applications, demand highly secure data transmission due to their reliance on interconnected devices and networks for managing electricity. Traditional encryption methods face challenges in secure key distribution and are increasingly vulnerable to quantum attacks. This work addresses these vulnerabilities by utilizing quantum cryptography to secure data exchange in smart grid systems. The primary contributions are the implementation of multi‐level encryption algorithms, specifically Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and the BB84 protocol, to ensure robust confidentiality and integrity in data transmission, overcoming key distribution issues and providing inherent detection of eavesdropping. Our proposed system facilitates secured, real‐time monitoring, control, and optimization of electricity generation, distribution, and consumption among distributed components. The performance of this framework is evaluated based on key metrics including relative execution time, correlation analysis of plaintext versus ciphertext, and privacy amplification effectiveness, demonstrating enhanced security and operational efficiency.
As the world becomes more computerized, keeping data transfer safe has become very important. Quantum computers and other strong computers have the ability to break classical encryption methods, even though they are widely used. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a new way to protect data. It uses quantum physics to make sure that the sharing of cryptographic keys is safe. The aim of this study is to look into how QKD can be used to improve the security of data transfer. The suggested method combines QKD with current encryption standards to create a safe and effective way to send data. The method includes setting up a key sharing system based on QKD and then using symmetric encryption algorithms to keep the data being sent safe. The system is tried in different communication settings to see how well it protects against spying and "man-in-the-middle" attacks. The study's results show that QKD greatly improves the safety of sending data by keeping the cryptography keys secret. The results show that QKD has the potential to stop people from getting in without permission and find any attempts to change the keys while they are being sent out. The table below shows performance numbers that show how well QKD works in real-world situations. It shows how well communication speeds and security measures compare.
The evolution of smart grids necessitates the deployment of highly secure communication protocols, particularly for critical infrastructure such as Distribution Ring Network Cabinets (RMUs). In this work, we present an integrated cryptographic framework that combines Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) with an SM2-based SPEKE protocol to establish a resilient end-to-end secure communication channel. Initially, QKD is employed—using, for instance, the BB84 protocol—to generate a quantum key with information-theoretic security guar- antees. In parallel, an SM2-enhanced SPEKE protocol is used to perform mutual authentication through elliptic curve-based ephemeral key exchange and identity binding, thereby deriving an authentication key. These two independent keys are then combined with a randomly generated salt via a HMAC-based Key Derivation Function (HKDF) to derive a robust session key. The session key is subsequently utilized to secure data transmissions through symmetric encryption, effectively mitigating threats from eavesdropping, man-in-the-middle, replay, and side-channel attacks. Comprehensive theoretical analysis and preliminary evaluations suggest that our layered approach not only bridges quantum and classical cryptographic techniques but also meets the stringent security and performance requirements of modern power system communications. This work provides a promising pathway toward future-proofing secure communication in next-generation smart grids.
The exponential growth of global telecommunication networks has heightened the need for robust security frameworks to protect data transmission against evolving cyber threats.Traditional encryption techniques, such as RSA and AES, while effective, are increasingly vulnerable to advances in computational power and the impending threat posed by quantum computing.Quantum cryptography, specifically Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), presents a revolutionary approach to securing telecommunication systems by leveraging the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics.Unlike classical encryption methods, QKD guarantees data security through the use of quantum states that are inherently resistant to interception and eavesdropping due to the no-cloning theorem and Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.From a broader perspective, this paper explores the integration of quantum cryptographic protocols into existing telecommunication infrastructures, emphasizing their potential to safeguard data transmission in fiber-optic and satellite communication networks.It examines the architecture and operational mechanisms of QKD systems, detailing protocols such as BB84 and E91, and evaluates their effectiveness in countering both classical and quantum-enabled cyber-attacks.Additionally, the study delves into the challenges of large-scale deployment, including key distribution range limitations, hardware requirements, and the need for quantum repeaters to support long-distance secure communication.Narrowing the focus, case studies on the implementation of quantum cryptography in 5G networks and global telecommunication hubs are analysed, highlighting their role in enhancing network resilience and ensuring end-to-end encryption.The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for policy development, international standardization, and future research directions to facilitate the widespread adoption of quantum cryptography in the telecommunications sector.