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arXiv:2601.02846

Quantum key distribution without authentication and information leakage

Zixuan Hu, Zhenyu Li

quant-phSubmitted Jan 6, 2026• Announced Jan 7, 2026• 0 citations• Revised Jun 25, 2026 (v2)
v1 · Jan 6, 2026v2 · Jun 25, 2026
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Abstract

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is the most extensively researched quantum cryptographic protocol, leveraging quantum phenomena to enable information-theoretically secure key establishment. Conventional QKD systems rely on authenticated classical post-processing channels to prevent impersonation attacks. However, QKD inherently lacks authentication capabilities, necessitating an external authentication mechanism. Furthermore, the classical post-processing steps introduce information leakage, exposing QKD to additional attack strategies and diminishing the final key rate. In this study, we introduce a novel QKD protocol that eliminates the need for separate authentication, prevents information leakage, and significantly improves the achievable key rate. By removing public classical channels entirely, our design attains perfect secrecy with the use of two reusable pre-shared keys.

Comments
Revised version containing 2 new figures

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Quantum key distribution (QKD) is the most extensively researched quantum cryptographic protocol, leveraging quantum phenomena to enable information-theoretically secure key establishment. Conventional QKD systems rely on authenticated classical post-processing channels to prevent impersonation attacks. However, QKD inherently lacks authentication capabilities, necessitating an external authentication mechanism. Furthermore, the classical post-processing steps introduce information leakage, exposing QKD to additional attack strategies and diminishing the final key rate. In this study, we introduce a novel QKD protocol that eliminates the need for separate authentication, prevents information leakage, and significantly improves the achievable key rate. By removing public classical channels entirely, our design attains perfect secrecy with the use of two reusable pre-shared keys.
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This paper proposes a novel protocol for authenticated quantum key distribution (QKD) that addresses the inherent vulnerabilities of traditional, centralized key management systems. The core concept leverages the security of QKD to establish a shared secret key, then integrates this key with a classical authentication protocol to verify the identities of the communicating parties. The protocol, denoted as AQKD, aims to enhance overall communication security by combining the unique properties of quantum key distribution with robust classical authentication mechanisms. The design incorporates a multi-round key exchange utilizing Bennett-May-Crabtree (BMC) protocol and incorporates a challenge-response mechanism for authentication. The proposed protocol mitigates risks associated with compromised central servers and provides a more resilient security posture. The primary contribution lies in the synergistic integration of these two established cryptographic paradigms, resulting in a more secure and adaptable communication system. The protocol's security is analyzed, considering potential attacks and demonstrating its resilience. The simulation results highlight the effectiveness of AQKD in establishing secure communication channels, particularly against eavesdropping and identity forgery attempts.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers theoretically unbreakable key exchange, but is vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks if the identities of the communicating parties are not rigorously verified. This paper proposes a novel QKD protocol integrating classical authentication to provide a layered security approach. The core concept involves utilizing a QKD system alongside a robust classical authentication mechanism. This layered approach significantly reduces the risk of successful attacks by ensuring that both parties are who they claim to be before key exchange occurs. The protocol's security relies on the assumption that the classical authentication system is itself secure. We detail the protocol's components, focusing on the integration of Bennett-Brassard (BB84) or a similar QKD scheme with a practical authentication protocol, and analyze its security properties. The proposed system is designed to mitigate the threats posed by adversaries who can intercept and manipulate the quantum key exchange without compromising the authentication process. The potential for improved security and resilience is demonstrated, representing a significant advancement in the practical application of QKD.
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