Future Perspective of Quantum Cryptography for Smart Cities of the 21st Century

Abstract

Maintaining security in smart cities and various smart applications has become a most challenging research domain to provide secure access to the society. Exposure of digital data to intruders can easily happen through different smart gadgets knowingly or unknowingly. To ensure security, the role of quantum cryptography is essential in this regard. Quantum cryptography is achieved by utilizing the polarization property of photon and quantum key distribution (QKD). In contrast to a classical computer, quantum computers achieve exponential speedup through reversible operations with the intention to provide security without compromising processing speed in smart applications. In this chapter, concepts, features, and technologies of smart cities are presented. Next, the important role of quantum computing in security with quantum key distribution protocols are explained. This chapter presents an algorithm of encryption and secret key to give the insights of QKD protocol. The chapter concludes with future directives of QKD in smart cities.