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NetQRNG Project: Revolutionizing IoT Security with Quantum Random Number Generators

The project brings two partners: iQrypto as technology provider, a belgian start up that has developed the QRNG component and Zero Division as industrial partner, which is an italian SME with IoT expertise. This project has been monitored by Minalogic.

The NetQRNG project set out to address a critical need in the Internet of Things (IoT) landscape: enhancing cybersecurity for connected devices. With the rapid growth of IoT, the demand for secure, encrypted communications is at an all-time high. The project’s innovative approach focused on developing an affordable, low-power quantum random number generator (QRNG), integrated into a Raspberry Pi-based system, to bolster security in IoT networks.

Project Overview

The core of the NetQRNG project was the development of a secure IoT node capable of establishing highly secure SSL/TLS encrypted connections. By utilizing quantum-based random numbers, the project significantly improved the confidentiality and integrity of communications between IoT stakeholders. The initial focus of the project was on microgrids in Energy Communities, where energy providers seek to protect energy credits and carbon offsets through secure tokenization of confidential data.

 

Key Achievements

• Integration of QRNG:

The project successfully integrated a low-power, low-area QRNG device into custom hardware based on Raspberry Pi, showcasing the expertise of iQrypto in developing printed circuit boards (PCBs) and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). This allowed for the seamless generation of quantum-based random numbers for enhanced encryption in IoT nodes.

• Software Development:

The team, in collaboration with Zerodivision, developed a robust software platform that delivers a continuous stream of quantum-generated random numbers at the application level. Zerodivision's extensive background in server-client solution architecture played a pivotal role in ensuring the software was scalable and efficient, allowing for secure communications across various IoT devices.

• Demonstration and Strategy:

The NetQRNG project not only delivered a proof of concept but also defined a clear strategy for broader adoption of the technology. The scalability of the solution was demonstrated, highlighting its potential for widespread use in IoT nodes. This step was key in showcasing the practical applications and long-term benefits of incorporating QRNG technology into IoT infrastructure.

 

Challenges Faced

• Technical Integration:

Integrating the QRNG with the Raspberry Pi hardware and ensuring seamless communication between hardware and software was a complex task that required meticulous attention to detail.

• Resource Constraints:

Managing the project within limited time and budget presented challenges, but the team successfully navigated these constraints to deliver a working, scalable solution.

 

Project Outcomes

• Enhanced Security:

The project proved the potential of QRNG technology to significantly enhance the security of IoT devices. By using quantum-based randomness, the project provided a robust solution to prevent vulnerabilities associated with traditional pseudo-random number generators in encryption processes.

• Scalable Solution:

One of the project’s most significant outcomes was the creation of a commercially scalable solution for secure IoT communications. The IoT node developed during the project maintained low component costs, making it an ideal solution for cost-sensitive applications, such as those found in energy communities.

• Public Demonstration:

A public demonstration of the NetQRNG technology was created to showcase its practical applications and benefits. This demo allows stakeholders to see firsthand how the technology can be implemented to secure IoT networks and ensure data integrity.

The NetQRNG project successfully laid the groundwork for improving IoT security with quantum random number generation. Its initial application in energy communities shows great promise for future scaling to other industries.

 

About Silicon Eurocluster

The Silicon Eurocluster project aims to achieve greater European self-sufficiency, with increased competitiveness and resilience in the electronics value chain, with specific attention to SMEs.

 

“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”