Modular Blockchain Architecture: Securing Data with Quantum-Safe Encryption

The development and increased accessibility of quantum computing paradigms will significantly compromise traditional cryptographic protocols. Decentralized data systems, specifically those built to handle concurrent data transactions such as the blockchain, will be vulnerable to quantum attacks - due to the stark disparity in computational strength and speed relative to classical computing systems. Although quantum computing is still in its infancy, its future threat to data security is imperative. This threat is amplified when considering resource-constrained systems that optimize transaction throughput, which is true for Internet of Things (IoT) devices and infrastructures. Thus, this paper proposes a novel architecture for a Dual-Factor Quantum-Safe Blockchain (DFQSB) to ensure latency minimization and fortify against quantum threats. Before proposing the quantum-safe blockchain, we conduct a background review of blockchain, post-quantum cryptography (PQC), and quantum key distribution (QKD). Then, we describe the proposed DFQSB architecture and provide an overview of the platform, workflow, and modularity. Finally, we identify potential algorithms that can work within the architecture, outline limitations, and make recommendations.