A MULTILAYERED SECURITY SCHEME FOR DATA ENCRYPTION AND DECRYPTION FOR STRONGER SECURITY TOWARDS POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY IN CLOUD COMPUTING

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4588 A MULTILAYERED SECURITY SCHEME FOR DATA ENCRYPTION AND DECRYPTION FOR STRONGER SECURITY TOWARDS POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY IN CLOUD COMPUTING 1DASARI VEERA REDDY,2DR.PADMAJA MADUGULA 1Research Scholar, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, GST, Gitam Deemed to be University, Visakhapatnam 2Asst. Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, GST, Gitam Deemed to be University, Visakhapatnam Email: v[email protected], pmadugu[email protected] ABSTRACT Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is poised to revolutionize data, network, and information system security as quantum computing gains traction. Shor and Grover's methods show how the potential of quantum computing might make cryptographic primitives like RSA and AES susceptible. This suggests that developments in quantum computing are replacing the most advanced conventional encryption methods. Future quantum computers might be far quicker than current ones because of techniques like superposition and entanglement in quantum computing. As such, initiatives are underway to create security solutions that are compliant with PQC. It's important to note that more work will need to be done to construct security primitives compatible with PQC, as the research of these schemes is still in its early phases. The Multilayered Data Encryption Standard (MDES) is one multilayered security technique that addresses this. Because this approach uses many data transformations, data in transit and at rest is exceptionally safe. Encrypting the first layer's data uses the enhanced AES encryption standard. Data availability and integrity are enhanced by slicing and modifying the ciphertext at the second layer using the Optimal Information Dispersal Algorithm (OIDA). The data is converted into an alternate format once slices are created, before the hash value is computed. The data is stored in cloud computing or any other storage system after conversion. Java is the programming language used to construct the specified security solution. An empirical investigation reveals that the proposed technique is highly secure and supports data availability and integrity through a verifiable data loss recovery mechanism. Security research shows the recommended strategy is safer than the most recent methods. Keywords - Security, Cryptography, Post Quantum Cryptography, Multi-layered Security Scheme, Data Integrity, Data Availability 1. INTRODUCTION Traditional cryptography has been a mainstay of data security for many years, encrypting and safeguarding sensitive data using mathematical techniques. Conventional cryptography has been a foundation of data security for decades, using mathematical principles to encrypt and protect sensitive data. However, the introduction of quantum computing poses a severe threat to current cryptography systems since it can break encryption methods that are now believed to be safe. One of the most significant disadvantages of classical cryptography in the face of quantum computing is that two well-known encryption techniques, RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), are susceptible to assaults with quantum computers. Quantum computers, which employ quantum bits (qubits) to run computations tenfold quicker than traditional encryption methods, can quickly address the fundamental mathematical problems of conventional cryptography systems. Researchers are actively working on postquantum cryptography, also referred to as quantum-resistant cryptography, which intends to produce encryption techniques resistant to quantum attacks to meet the restrictions provided by quantum computing. These cutting-edge cryptographic methods provide data security in the quantum computing era by withstanding quantum computers' processing power. Although Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4589 classical encryption has proven to be effective in protecting data, its limits in the setting of quantum computing highlight the need to switch to postquantum cryptographic methods to secure sensitive information in the future [6, 7]. It has been suggested that several post-quantum cryptography primitives might replace existing encryption methods. This group includes multivariate polynomials, hashing, lattice, and code-based cryptosystems. Through mathematical problems that are thought to be complicated even for quantum computers, these primitives seek to provide security in a postquantum computing environment. Although quantum computing has progressed, by using these novel cryptographic primitives, data security may be guaranteed to remain secure in the post-quantum age. Careful planning and implementation of this modification are required to maintain interaction with current technology and reduce security threats throughout the transition. To protect private information and ensure the ongoing security of digital exchanges and operations, post-quantum encryption will need to be reinforced if the use of quantum technology is ever used [11], [12], and [13]. Previous studies in the post-quantum cryptography domain have primarily focused on either developing secure cryptographic primitives or optimizing specific components like key encapsulation mechanisms or signature schemes. While approaches such as RLWE-based encryption [7], isogeny and lattice-based frameworks [5], and hybrid public key encryption like PQ-HPKE [13] offer strong theoretical resistance to quantum threats, they often lack integrated mechanisms for ensuring data availability and tamper detection in cloud environments. Unlike these isolated solutions, our work is motivated by the need for a unified and layered security model that combines encryption, dispersion, and verification to address real-world scenarios involving cloud storage and transmission. The MDES framework distinguishes itself by employing modified AES with dynamic S-boxes, optimized IDA for resilience, and hashing for integrity validation— all within a cohesive architecture. This layered approach not only strengthens post-quantum resistance but also ensures that data recovery and verification are inherently supported, filling a critical gap left by prior single-layer cryptographic designs. The things we contributed to this paper are enumerated below. The Multilayered Data Encryption Standard (MDES), a multilayered security method, is suggested in this work. This technique offers robust security for data in transit and at rest with many data transformations. The first data encryption layer uses an enhanced version of the AES standard. The second layer processes the resulting ciphertext using an Optimized Information Dispersal Algorithm (OIDA). This algorithm splits and restructures the data to support data availability and integrity. Before computing a hash value on the data, the data is further changed into another representation following the creation of slices. Finally, the transformed data is stored in any storage infrastructure like the cloud. The proposed security scheme is implemented using the Java programming language. Our empirical study has revealed that the proposed scheme is highly secure besides supporting data integrity and availability with its provable data loss recovery phenomena. According to a security study, the suggested scheme is safer than the most recent ones. The rest of the document is organized as follows: The literature on PQC-compatible methods and other security schemes that improve data security is reviewed in section two. The proposed system and its underlying mechanisms are presented in section three. The results of our experimental study are presented in section four. The significance and limitations of the research are discussed in section five. Finally, section six concludes our work and offers directions for the study's future scope. 2. RELATED WORK There have been numerous efforts to improve data security in response to the emergence of quantum computing. Grote et al. [1] have highlighted the challenge of asymmetric cryptography. They emphasized the need to update processes and protocols for security in anticipation of the impending influence of quantum computers. Dam et al. [2] also highlighted the significance of data protection in the digital age, especially given the danger that conventional encryption faces from quantum computing. They mentioned the increasing research on post-quantum cryptography and the standardization initiatives led by NIST. Balamurugan et al. [3] discussed the evolution of cryptography from the Caesar cipher to contemporary quantum-resistant systems, focusing on investigating secure algorithms using code-based cryptography. Roy and Kalita [4] Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4590 noted the risk quantum computing poses to RSA and ECC and highlighted the promise of postquantum schemes, particularly those based on lattices, in the context of security for limited devices. Borges et al. [5] emphasized the essential nature of post-quantum cryptography because RSA and ECC are vulnerable to quantum computing. When evaluating the security and efficacy of post-quantum algorithms, they talked about the preference for isogeny-based systems and RLWE. Chamola and others discussed the promise of quantum computing for exponential data processing on 5G networks and the resulting risk to asymmetric cryptography [6]. Promising solutions such as post-quantum cryptosystems and quantum key distribution were mentioned. Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) aims to withstand quantum attacks while maintaining compatibility with traditional technology, as the researchers Xie and colleagues [7] described. They emphasized the RLWE method while highlighting NIST's standardization of PQC utilizing 26 Round 2 candidates. The Hybrid Universal Network coding Cryptosystem (HUNCC), introduced by Cohen and colleagues [8], demonstrates the possibility for post-quantum security by combining information-theoretic security and public-key cryptography for quick transmission speeds. Kumar and his team [9] emphasized the impending cybersecurity risks. The dangers associated with quantum computing and the necessity of being ready with quantumimmune cryptography. While investigating international initiatives, obstacles, and the viability of quantum-safe algorithms for ICT infrastructure security. Vaishnavi and Pillai [10] contrasted cryptography methods via a SWOT analysis, examining the enhanced capabilities of quantum computing and suggesting improvements to security for post-quantum data transfer. Gabriel et al. [11] claim that the new MQPC framework provides better post-quantum security than RSA and ECC solutions. Cryptography and steganography are crucial for ensuring the security of e-voting systems. Basu et al. [12] highlighted the risk of quantum computing to encryption. NIST conducts evaluations of postquantum algorithms. We compare FPGA and ASIC implementations with NIST PQC candidates. Anastasova et al. [13] discussed the balance in public key cryptography and the combination of asymmetric and symmetric approaches in HPKE. They also compared PQHPKE versions resistant to quantum computing with RSA, showing minimal overhead. Carames and Lamas [14] emphasized the accountability and openness provided by DLTs and blockchain. Post-quantum cryptosystems enhance blockchain security by addressing concerns related to quantum computing. Roma et al. [15] investigated the energy consumption of PQC algorithms, demonstrating high efficiency in lattice-based systems and competitiveness in multivariate techniques. Pawar and Harkut [16] highlighted the importance of Internet data security when storing personal data across multiple platforms. They compared the efficacy of classical and quantum cryptography in picture encryption. Nejatollahoi et al. [17] pointed out the threat posed to standard cryptography by quantum computing and emphasized the need for carefully designed postquantum lattice-based methods that are agile and diverse across platforms. Campbell [18] examined the vulnerability of ECDSA in wellknown blockchains and advocated for the switch to post-quantum lattice-based encryption for cybersecurity. Hekkala et al. [19] highlighted the threat posed to data security by quantum computing and emphasized the goal of postquantum algorithms. They also emphasized integrating post-quantum algorithms into heavily trafficked libraries to increase security. Liu et al. [20] mentioned that edge computing requires data encryption. They highlighted the importance of post-quantum cryptography, particularly latticebased systems, for ensuring long-term security in IoT and edge devices. In their work, Post-quantum algorithms, such as Goppa codes, were created by Baldi et al. [21] in response to the difficulty in establishing cryptography techniques due to quantum computing. To emphasize the urgent need for processing, Farooq et al. [22], as traditional encryption, is tested by quantum computing. They assessed how well the BIKE and McEliece algorithms performed, offering insightful data for prospective future encryption choices. Ukwuoma et al. [23] discussed how encryption hasn't solved the problems with cloud data security, emphasizing the necessity for new paradigms designed for quantum computing. Additionally, they noted that the cloud data security offered by the NTRU and McEliece algorithms is sufficient. Chikouche et al. [24] highlighted the need to investigate post-quantum cryptography on mobile devices since traditional public-key methods are vulnerable to quantum computing. They Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4591 acknowledged the promise of NTRU Encrypt and NTRU Sign while pointing out security issues with NTRU, Rainbow, and XMSS. Lone and Naaz suggested using blockchain technology to ensure availability, integrity, and secrecy [26]. They looked at how encryption, digital signatures, and hash functions are used in Bitcoin and Ethereum and stressed how crucial they are to security. The significance of postquantum cryptography was underscored, along with the continuous endeavors to establish scalable Post Quantum Blockchains. Satrya et al. [27] recommended RSA, NTRU, and SABER to enhance security procedures for safe Internet of Things energy systems. They also showed how a Raspberry Pi running a modified version of NTRU might improve Internet of Things security without requiring additional hardware. They emphasized the need for more study and development to leverage MQTT for IoT fully. Meher and Midhun Chakkaravarthy [28] highlighted the perils of asymmetric keys resulting from quantum computing and the significance of NIST defining post-quantum methods for future security. They proposed a hybrid approach for quantum-safe systems that blends PQC with traditional algorithms. According to Asif [29], post-quantum encryption—like lattice-based cryptography—is essential because quantum computers threaten traditional cryptography. Their survey also examined the usefulness and implementation difficulties of IoT devices. Wang and colleagues [30] emphasized the need for a conventional channel in authentication while highlighting the security of using quantum key distribution (QKD) in combination with quantum computers. They also pointed out post-quantum cryptography (PQC) streamlines authentication processes using a single digital certificate for each user. Fakhruldeen et al. [31] equipped wireless networks with security to fend off quantum attacks. Due to its ability to handle complex tasks, quantum computing has the potential to alter industries like healthcare and fintech significantly. [50]. To enable safe data transfer, new post-quantum cryptosystems are being developed. The effects of quantum computing on DER systems and contemporary cryptography were covered by Ahn et al. [32]. They looked at quantum attack vulnerabilities, defense mechanisms like QKD and PQC, and possible directions for quantum-safe DER network research. Data security was addressed by Karbasi and Shahpasand [33] with Ethereum, a [51] decentralized blockchain with smart contracts. Additionally, they recommended using PAKE, IPFS, smart contracts, blockchain, and PAKE to protect public keys from MITM attacks. Future objectives include creating Ethereum DApps.Their survey analyzed quantum-resistant ABE systems' security, design, and challenges. Carames [35] emphasized the threat of quantum computing to encryption systems, particularly for Internet security. They stressed the need for efficient algorithms for post-quantum Internet of Things devices with limited resources, and researchers are working on creating IoT systems resistant to quantum attacks. Andrzejczak [36] centered on the NIST standardization process and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). The NIST-selected method Round5 offers KEM and PKE, and there are plans to expand it with error correction codes and nonring variants, along with investigating areaperformance trade-offs in the future. Gaj [37] discussed how Post-Quantum Cryptography, which seeks to protect against quantum attacks using conventional platforms, is affected by quantum computing. Richter et al. [38] initiated a contest to find algorithms resistant to quantum errors. The paper examines the finalists of the post-quantum cryptography round three. Hemandez et al. [40] discussed the vulnerability of public-key cryptosystems in Internet of Things devices and communications [43]to quantum computers. They looked at the' effectiveness and suitability of post-quantum algorithms for IoT devices operating in resource-constrained environments. Cambou et al. [41] claimed that lattice and code-based cryptography improve security [44] against quantum attacks and use physical unclonable functions (PUFs) for key generation in post-quantum cryptography (PQC). [45] They also mentioned that PUF-based key generation for RAINBOW is being optimized, and PQC throughput is increased via AES hardware acceleration [46] PUFs and highperformance computing benefit from stochastic aspects, which reduce latencies [47]and enhance security. The literature review observed that existing PQC-compatible schemes are still in their early stages [48], and continuous efforts are 49 required to develop genuinely PQC-compatible security primitives. Despite the growing body of research on postquantum cryptography (PQC), existing security solutions often lack an integrated, multi-layered mechanism that ensures data confidentiality, Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4592 integrity, and availability, especially in untrusted public cloud environments. Most studies emphasize individual aspects like encryption or data dispersal but fail to provide a holistic framework that is adaptable for future quantum threats. This gap highlights the need for a secure, scalable, and verifiable data protection model. Problem Statement: Current cryptographic frameworks are not fully equipped to handle the computational capabilities of quantum attacks while ensuring end-to-end data availability and tamper detection during cloud storage operations. Research Questions: How can a security framework be designed to resist both classical and quantum computational attacks while preserving data integrity and availability? Can a multi-layered encryption mechanism that combines enhanced AES, optimized data dispersal, and hashing improve resistance to evolving security threats? How does the proposed MDES scheme compare with traditional cryptographic methods in terms of performance, security strength, and operational efficiency? 3. PROPOSED SYSTEM This section outlines the proposed methodology for enhancing data security, consisting of a security framework, encoding and decoding mechanisms, and underlying algorithms. It discusses a security framework compatible with post-quantum cryptography, incorporating various essential elements to provide comprehensive protection against traditional and potentially quantum computing threats. 3.1 Problem Definition Security is essential for real-world applications, including government systems. Until 1994, RSA was considered impenetrable and remained secure for four decades until Shor's algorithm's development demonstrated how quantum computers could compromise RSA and other existing methods. However, it takes different amounts of time to break each strategy. In reaction to Shor's discovery, cryptography experts raised the critical length of algorithms to maintain their unbreakability. Additionally, Grover's technique exposed AES's weaknesses when quantum computers were present. AES and RSA are both susceptible to quantum computer attacks. For instance, Shor's method took 3.58 hours to break the RSA-1024 algorithm, whereas it took 55 hours to break the NIST P-521 algorithm. Grover’s algorithm would need 2.6x10^12 years to break AES-128. These findings indicate that existing cryptographic methods become highly vulnerable with the advancement of quantum computers. Although acquiring advanced quantum computers takes time, adversaries have begun using the 'hack now and crack later' strategy, stealing sensitive data and cracking the underlying security when full-fledged quantum computers become available. The potential for quantum computing to surpass conventional computing in speed and power is significant, driven by quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement. Companies like Microsoft, IBM, and Alphabet are vying for technological leadership in quantum computing, and investment in this subject is growing globally. In light of this, the need for a unique data security technique like post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is paramount, and it is the focus of this research proposal. 3.2 Proposed Data Security Framework Using post-quantum cryptography to improve data security is essential for several reasons. RSA and ECC, two popular encryption methods, are built on mathematical riddles that quantum computers can quickly solve using techniques like Shor's algorithm. When quantum computers reach their total capacity, they might be able to crack these encryption techniques and jeopardize the protection of confidential information. Many encrypted communications must remain safe for extended periods—sometimes even decades. The goal of post-quantum cryptography is to develop algorithms that are resistant to both potential future quantum attacks and the classical computing techniques that are in use today. As more sensitive information is transmitted and stored digitally, the risk of interception and decryption increases. Strengthening data security with post-quantum cryptography helps to ensure that confidential data, such as personal information, financial transactions, and government communications, remains protected against evolving threats. In this regard, we have developed a data security framework, shown in Figure 1, which includes mechanisms to enhance security strength for comparison with PQC. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4593 Figure 1: Proposed Framework To Strengthen Data Security And Meet Post-Quantum Threads The security framework defines a process for protecting data. Initially, an original file undergoes encryption using a modified AES algorithm to produce ciphertext. This ciphertext is then fragmented and processed using an optimized information dispersal algorithm before being hashed. The resulting hashed and converted data and the original hash are then stored on a public cloud. The ciphertext slices are retrieved from the cloud to recover the original file, and their integrity is verified using the stored hash. Finally, the ciphertext is decrypted to restore the original file. The proposed framework includes an encoding process that enhances data security before storing it in the cloud. To get the original data from the cloud, it also has a decoding mechanism that works in reverse of the encoding method. The proposed MDES framework is inspired by prior research that explored hybrid encryption methods and layered security protocols in the context of quantum-resilient architectures. For instance, Kumar et al. [42] introduced a modified AES algorithm with dynamic S-box generation, which forms the core cryptographic engine in our framework. Similarly, techniques involving information dispersal for enhancing data availability, such as those discussed by Ukwuoma et al. [23] and Fernandez-Carames and Lamas [14], have laid the groundwork for our optimized IDA slicing mechanism. The overall protocol in MDES extends these foundations by offering a structured, end-to-end mechanism that not only encrypts and disperses data, but also verifies integrity before and after cloud storage. This layered model follows the experimental protocol used in previous works—developing the algorithm, simulating data encryption and retrieval, benchmarking performance metrics, and analyzing security strength—making it a validated approach aligned with recent cryptographic practices. 3.3 Encoding Process An upgraded AES technique encrypts a plain text file as part of the data protection procedure (encoding) shown in Figure 2. After that, it is hashed and sliced using the IDA technique. The original hash and the hashed and transformed data are kept in the cloud. The same key is needed for encryption and decryption since modified AES employs a symmetric encryption technique. The Public Cloud Hash and Converted data Data and hash Resultant slices Verify integrity Recover Slices Obtain cipher Text Decryption Data Owner Encryption (modified AES) File Cipher text Slicing with optimized information dispersal algorithm Apply hashing Actual original file Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4594 communication parties must disclose this key, which is usually kept confidential. AES encrypts and decrypts data via a sequence of substitution and permutation operations. This arrangement ensures that every plaintext bit affects many ciphertext bits, offering a solid defense against cryptographic assaults. Figure 2: The Modus Operandi Of The Encoding Process Before storing the data in a cloud architecture, the modified AES is used with specific data alterations, such as IDA slicing, to increase security. To improve cloud storage data security, dependability, and access, communication distribution algorithms, or IDAs, are needed. To enable the data to be distributed over several cloud servers or storage units, IDA first breaks the data into smaller parts. Replication allows for the recovery of the original data from the remaining sections in the unlikely event that some are destroyed or rendered unusable due to device faults or cyberattacks. Through data segmentation into conveniently digestible bits, IDA may improve privacy. The risk of unauthorized access or data breaches exists because no single piece of data exposes the complete set. System resilience is increased by IDA, which distributes data across several servers or locations. Therefore, data loss due to hardware failures, natural disasters, or short-term service interruptions is less likely.IDA may make distributed data, which is dispersed over several nodes, more accessible to retrieve. Customers can still access data from other servers or locations, even if specific nodes experience outages. IDA facilitates the scalability of cloud storage packages. To effectively distribute data across these nodes, IDA may adapt dynamically, and more storage nodes can be added as required. By storing just relevant components across several nodes, IDA might be able to maximize storage utilization. Storage costs may be cheaper overall than with conventional replication-based systems that keep several copies of the data. Processes to verify the integrity of each data component and the quality of the first data reconstruction are frequently used in IDA approaches. This guarantees the completeness and accuracy of the data collected from several sources. Hashing is necessary for files stored on cloud storage platforms to ensure data accuracy. Hashing functions provide a fixed-size hash result, sometimes called a checksum, based on the contents of a file. This checksum gives an individual depiction of the file contents. It is possible to rapidly identify any changes made to a file by comparing it before and after it is delivered or stored in the cloud and finding its hash value. Hashes are subject to change, regardless of how much material is in the file—hashing results in significantly smaller file sizes most of the time. Computationally efficiently, one may compare hash values without processing or sending the entire file. Hashing values allow for speedy data integrity testing, which is very helpful in cloud storage scenarios where many files are constantly saved and retrieved. One of the primary purposes of hashing is to prevent unwanted file changes. Should someone try to change a file, will the hash values calculated and stored differ? Hashing is Data File (plain text) Encryption Using Enhanced AES IDA Slicing Perform Hashing Save Resultant File and Hash Cloud Storage Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4595 another way that file authenticity is verified. A securely communicated hash value may give the receiptor confidence that the file has not been changed during transmission. 3.4 Decoding Process Safe retrieval processes are crucial in shielding sensitive data stored in the cloud from unwanted users and programs. By preventing unauthorized persons or entities from seeing or intercepting confidential information, these techniques ensure the security and privacy of your data. Secure retrieval techniques also ensure that data recovered from the cloud hasn't been altered or damaged during transfer, purposefully or inadvertently. This comprehensive protection, provided by the cloud, offers a safe way to retrieve altered and stored data, giving you confidence in the safety of your data. Figure 3: The Modus Operandi Of The Decoding Process An approach to data recovery and protection based on the cloud is shown in Figure 3. A modified AES algorithm is first used to encrypt a sensitive file. Following IDA's segmentation of the encrypted file into smaller parts, the file's integrity is hashed. These hashed sections are safely kept on a public cloud platform with the original hash. Upon retrieving the encrypted segments from the cloud, the file's integrity is confirmed by comparing it with the saved hash. Afterward, the original data is recovered by decrypting them using the AES technique. 3.5 Modified AES We have modified the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm, drawing inspiration from the work of [42]. During encryption or decryption, a modified Advanced AES dynamically creates replacement boxes (S-boxes) instead of using fixed ones like the original AES algorithm. This approach improves security by adding an element of unpredictability that makes it harder for hackers to crack encryption and decode data. Encoded File in Cloud Data Integrity Verification IDA Slicing Decryption Obtain the Original Document Original Document Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4596 Figure 4: Dynamic S-Box Generation In A Modified AES Algorithm It is possible to improve the security of the AES algorithm and reduce its susceptibility to wellknown attacks like differential and linear cryptanalysis by dynamically generating S-boxes. Through increased complexity and resilience to attacks, dynamic S-box creation decreases the predictability of the encryption process. No predefined S-boxes exist for substitution operations in a modified AES with dynamic S-box building, typically occurring during the Sub Bytes stage. Instead, they are generated by preestablished processes or methods that may use the round number, encryption key, or other data taken from the plaintext or ciphertext. Attackers cannot rely on default S-box attributes because of this unpredictability, making cryptanalysis attempts more challenging. The encryption key usually determines S-box values or settings in dynamic Sbox creation. This crucial dependence protects against known-key and brute force attacks by guaranteeing that the key uniquely identifies the S-boxes used during encryption or decryption. Dynamic S-box generation needs to be used very carefully in architecture and validation to ensure that the generated S-boxes do not introduce new vulnerabilities or jeopardize the overall security of the encryption scheme. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology 15th June 2025. Vol.103. No.11 © Little Lion Scientific ISSN: 1992-8645 www.jatit.org E-ISSN: 1817-3195 4603 Integration with blockchain and adaptation to IoT environments are potential future enhancements. Lightweight optimization and hardware-level performance testing are also recommended. This work differs from earlier approaches by combining encryption, dispersal, and verification into a single system. Prior works often focused on algorithmic strength alone, without addressing storage resilience or tamper detection. MDES introduces a complete and practical solution by integrating these layers and validating them through performance comparisons. The research protocol builds on modified AES, dispersal algorithms, and prior quantum-secure frameworks, structured through algorithm development, simulation, benchmarking, and security evaluation. Compared to PQ-HPKE or lattice-based schemes, MDES offers broader protection by addressing availability and integrity alongside encryption. In conclusion, MDES provides a practical, layered security model that is resistant to quantum threats. It enhances performance, ensures data recoverability, and integrates multiple protection techniques. Future work will involve testbed deployment, integration with secure key exchanges, and adaptation to constrained environments for broader applicability. 6. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK The Multilayered Data Encryption Standard (MDES), a multilayered security technique, is proposed in this paper. This method, which uses many data transformations, offers high security for data in transit and at rest. An upgraded version of the AES standard is used for the first data encryption layer. An Optimized Information Dispersal Algorithm (OIDA) is used for the resulting ciphertext in the second layer. This algorithm splits and restructures the data to support data availability and integrity. After the generation of slices, the data is transformed further into another representation before a hash value is computed on the data. Finally, the transformed data is stored in any storage infrastructure like the cloud. The proposed security scheme is implemented using Java programming language. Our empirical study has revealed that the proposed scheme is highly secure besides supporting data integrity and availability with its provable data loss recovery phenomena. Security analysis showed that, in terms of security, the suggested system outperforms the most recent ones. We want to assess the proposed security plan in the future inside a certified testbed for PQC. Another direction for the future scope of the research aims to develop a PQC-compatible sharing mechanism that makes data security and key sharing completeness towards robust information systems. 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