Performance Evaluation of ML-KEM and ML-DSA Post-Quantum Algorithms in Real-World IoT Networks

Abstract

The recent introduction of Google’s Willow quantum chip has demonstrated remarkable computational capabilities, solving problems in microseconds that would take classical computers millions of years. As quantum computers advance toward cryptographic relevance, existing encryption algorithms become vulnerable to attacks that could break them within seconds or minutes, rendering current cryptographic protections ineffective. This necessitates the establishment of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards to secure systems in the quantum era. This study evaluates the performance of NIST-standardized PQC algorithms Kyber (512, 768, 1024) and Dilithium (2, 3, 5) on a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, representing baseline IoT device capabilities. Using the Liboqs library, each algorithm was executed across 1000 iterations in a real-world wireless network environment connected to a router, accounting for practical network conditions such as packet loss, latency, and jitter to assess computational feasibility under resource-constrained conditions. Experimental results demonstrate the practical viability of PQC algorithms in IoT environments. Kyber-512 achieved encryption times of 58 μs and decryption times of 51 μs, while Dilithium-2 completed signature generation in 1.1 ms. These findings confirm that both Kyber and Dilithium algorithms offer efficient and rapid performance, making them suitable candidates for securing IoT devices against quantum threats.