A quantum-resilient, blockchain-enabled SDN framework for securing IoMT systems

Abstract

Abstract The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is revolutionizing the healthcare industry through connected medical devices and real-time data exchange. However, the sensitive nature of this data requires a security infrastructure capable of resisting both current and future threats, including those posed by quantum computing. This paper presents a unified framework that combines Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Blockchain, and Quantum Cryptography to secure IoMT systems. The SDN architecture is enhanced with a Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) plane for quantum-safe session key generation and a Blockchain plane for decentralized identity verification. To improve efficiency, we introduce a self-mutable blockchain, blocks are automatically deleted after expiration to reduce storage and maintain scalability, while remaining tamper-resistant to attackers. The system utilizes Kyber, a lattice-based quantum-resistant algorithm, to mitigate future quantum threats. The proposed protocol was evaluated through mainnet simulation, BAN logic, and AVISPA formal verification, confirming strong security against classical and quantum attack vectors. This framework delivers a scalable, efficient, and future-ready solution for secure IoMT networks.