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Optics Letters

High-speed secure key distribution over an optical network based on computational correlation imaging

Li Shen, Xu‐Ri Yao, Wen-Kai Yu, Ling-An Wu, Guangjie Zhai

Published Jun 12, 2013• 47 citations
Publisher

Abstract

We present a protocol for an optical key distribution network based on computational correlation imaging, which can simultaneously realize privacy amplification and multiparty distribution. With current technology, the key distribution rate could reach hundreds of Mbit/s with suitable choice of parameters. The setup is simple and inexpensive, and may be employed in real networks where high-speed long-distance secure communication is required.

DOI
10.1364/ol.38.002144

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We present a protocol for an optical key distribution network based on computational correlation imaging, which can simultaneously realize privacy amplification and multiparty distribution. With current technology, the key distribution rate could reach hundreds of Mbit/s with suitable choice of parameters. The setup is simple and inexpensive, and may be employed in real networks where high-speed long-distance secure communication is required.
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Quantum key distribution (QKD) allows two distant parties to share secret keys with the proven security even in the presence of an eavesdropper with unbounded computational power. Recently, GHz-clock decoy QKD systems have been realized by employing ultrafast optical communication devices. However, security loopholes of high-speed systems have not been fully explored yet. Here we point out a security loophole at the transmitter of the GHz-clock QKD, which is a common problem in high-speed QKD systems using practical band-width limited devices. We experimentally observe the inter-pulse intensity correlation and modulation pattern-dependent intensity deviation in a practical high-speed QKD system. Such correlation violates the assumption of most security theories. We also provide its countermeasure which does not require significant changes of hardware and can generate keys secure over 100 km fiber transmission. Our countermeasure is simple, effective and applicable to wide range of high-speed QKD systems, and thus paves the way to realize ultrafast and security-certified commercial QKD systems.
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