Blockchain-Driven Secure Communication Framework for Next-Generation IoT Networks

The recent proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) has increased the desire to have a secure, efficient, and scalable network, especially to devices with resource constraints. This paper proposes a blockchain-based secure communication model in IoT networks of the next generation, combining decentralized authentication, lightweight consensus, smart contract-based access control, as well as edge/fog computing. The framework is divided into four layers: IoT Device Layer, Edge/Fog Layer, Blockchain Layer, and Application Layer that guarantee secure generation of data, preprocessing, validation of transactions, and real-time monitoring. An implementation of a prototype based on Hyperledger Fabric and NS-3 was performed and tested in terms of latency, throughput, energy use, smart contract execution time and time to validate a transaction. The findings indicate that the latency decreased by 145ms to 120ms, throughput increased by 80 to 92 transactions/sec, energy consumption dropped by 1.20W to 0.95W per device, smart contract execution time dropped by 40ms to 30ms, and transaction validation time dropped by 50ms to 40ms with six consecutive epochs. Real-time detection of attacks and operation resilience were also proved by the framework, confirming its usefulness in the context of the safe, open, and scalable IoT communication. The results validate the fact that blockchain combined with edge computing can be used to deliver an effective solution to improve security and efficiency in the IoT networks of the next generation.