In the context of integrating quantum principles into the Internet of Things (IoT) network to enhance capacity, security, and resilience, we present a classical-quantum (CQ) protocol stack that can be systematically integrated into a classical network. The CQ architecture explicitly defines the physical and link layer behavior to accommodate quantum functionalities. We demonstrate how the use of classical error correction codes (ECC) is practical within a quantum communication protocol integrated into a classical network setup. Furthermore, we have modeled a method to calculate the classical capacity of quantum-assisted transmission over a noisy quantum channel that employs classical ECC. As a proof of concept, we have emulated classical packet transmission through various layers of the proposed protocol stack, and the behavior has been analyzed.
In the context of integrating quantum principles into the Internet of Things (IoT) network to enhance capacity, security, and resilience, we present a classical-quantum (CQ) protocol stack that can be systematically integrated into a classical network. The CQ architecture explicitly defines the physical and link layer behavior to accommodate quantum functionalities. We demonstrate how the use of classical error correction codes (ECC) is practical within a quantum communication protocol integrated into a classical network setup. Furthermore, we have modeled a method to calculate the classical capacity of quantum-assisted transmission over a noisy quantum channel that employs classical ECC. As a proof of concept, we have emulated classical packet transmission through various layers of the proposed protocol stack, and the behavior has been analyzed.
As networks continue to evolve beyond 5 G, the Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to satisfy high demands for ultra-low latency, robust security, and resiliency in dynamic environments. Emerging technologies - particularly quantum technology - are a promising solution to address these challenges. This paper proposes a modular, hybrid quantum-classical architecture that seamlessly integrates quantum technologies such as secure quantum key sharing, quantum synchronization and quantum computing - into the existing IoT infrastructure. This approach supports compatibility with existing infrastructures while enabling next-generation capabilities. We explore the architectural principles of the IoT, leverage current standardization efforts, and illustrate practical use cases, including quantumassisted time synchronization and secure communication. With a focus on scalability and interoperability, the proposed framework provides a path towards quantum-enabled IoT networks. Such a hybrid quantum-classical regime forms the basis for a resilient quantum IoT infrastructure that is aligned with future networks requirements.
This thesis investigates the feasibility of utilising classical error-correcting codes in quantum communications, specifically in the entanglement-assisted communication of classical information over quantum depolarising channels. A classical-quantum communication system is presented, which relies on error-correction in the classical domain to achieve a classical information rate that approaches the entanglement-assisted capacity of a depolarising channel. Classical information is transmitted over the quantum channel by means of the superdense coding protocol. Different scenarios for the system are considered, including the noiseless and noisy distribution of initial entanglement resources and the use of higher-order entangled states. The overall transmission model corresponding to each scenario is shown to reduce to a classical, discrete and memoryless channel. The capacities of these equivalent classical channels are derived, and an inherent capacity loss when binary classical error correcting codes are employed is identified, motivating the use of non-binary codes. It is ultimately demonstrated that duo-binary turbo codes outperform binary turbo codes in all investigated scenarios, a result of the former's ability to exploit correlations between the pairs of classical bits communicated via the superdense coding protocol.
We investigate the use of non-binary classical error-correcting codes in facilitating reliable, entanglement-assisted communication of classical information over quantum depolarising channels. A classical-quantum communication system is presented, which relies on error-correction in the classical domain to achieve an information rate that approaches the entanglement-assisted capacity of the quantum channel. Classical information is transmitted over the channel by means of the superdense coding protocol, and the impact of the noisy distribution of initial entanglement resources on the achievable information rate is considered. In this context, the transmission model is equivalent to a non-binary discrete symmetric classical channel, which motivates the use of non-binary error-correcting codes capable of exploiting correlations between the pairs of classical bits communicated via the superdense coding protocol. We illustrate this principle by showing that duo-binary turbo codes significantly outperform binary turbo codes in the considered scenarios.
The convergence of Sixth-Generation (6G) wireless networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) demands unprecedented levels of performance, scalability, and security. Traditional architectures are increasingly inadequate in addressing the computational and security challenges posed by massive IoT connectivity, ultra-low latency, and high data throughput. This paper proposes a novel quantum-assisted architecture that integrates quantum computing and quantum communication principles to enhance the efficiency and security of 6G-enabled IoT systems. The framework leverages quantum key distribution (QKD), quantum machine learning (QML), and entanglement-assisted routing to provide end-to-end encryption, intelligent resource allocation, and resilient data transmission. Our simulation results and comparative analysis demonstrate significant improvements in network throughput, latency, and security resilience compared to classical 6G-IoT architectures. This research establishes a foundational step toward realising secure and intelligent next-generation wireless networks through the integration of quantum technology.
This paper is a tutorial-style introduction to methods and protocols for reliable transmission of quantum information over noisy quantum links. The exposition is based on a design philosophy that parallels classical link-layer mechanisms such as forward error correction and Automatic Repeat reQuest (ARQ). It starts by drawing analogies and highlights differences between classical and quantum links. Such analogies are used as guiding principles, with explicit attention to where the classical correspondence no longer applies and where non-classical constraints and resources govern the protocol design. The emphasis is on the fact that classical reliability is achieved through fungible and cloneable bits, whereas unknown quantum states cannot be copied or freely retransmitted. In addition, quantum information is subject to stringent physical constraints due to decoherence as well as the need for transduction between stationary and flying qubits. Quantum error correction is presented as the analogue of classical forward error correction, where logical qubits are protected by encoding them into larger entangled code spaces and using syndrome measurements to infer and correct errors without collapsing the encoded state. It then introduces teleportation-based link abstractions, in which transmission of an unknown qubit is realized by consuming shared Bell pairs together with classical messages. Entanglement purification protocols play a role similar to ARQ-style reliability enhancement by converting many noisy entangled pairs into fewer, higher-fidelity pairs at the cost of additional resources. The paper is written from the perspective of classical communication engineering and is intended as a guide for translating the relevant ideas toward reliable quantum links and networks.
The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has revolutionized digital communication, yet it simultaneously poses unprecedented security challenges due to constrained device capabilities and increasing cyber threats. Conventional cryptographic techniques, while currently effective, are vulnerable to emerging quantum computing technologies that threaten to render classical encryption obsolete. This paper explores the integration of quantum-safe cryptographic techniques within IoT networks to ensure long-term confidentiality, integrity, and authentication. It examines post-quantum cryptographic primitives, including lattice-based, hash-based, multivariate, and code-based schemes, and evaluates their suitability for resource-constrained IoT environments. The study focuses on lightweight implementation strategies, balancing computational efficiency with robust security requirements. Simulation analyses demonstrate that properly optimized quantum safe protocols can provide resilient encryption, key exchange, and digital signature functionalities without overwhelming device resources. Furthermore, the integration of these techniques with IoT communication standards and secure network protocols ensures end-to-end protection across heterogeneous networks. Challenges such as latency, energy consumption, and scalability are addressed, highlighting the necessity of tailored cryptographic solutions for diverse IoT applications. The findings confirm that quantum safe cryptography is essential for future-proofing IoT networks, offering sustainable security measures that remain resilient against both classical and quantum adversaries, thereby supporting the continued expansion of secure and intelligent interconnected systems.