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Optical and Quantum Electronics

Quantum key distribution with two-way authentication

Xiaobo Zheng, Zhiwen Zhao

Published Jun 1, 2021• 13 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Abstract Quantum key distribution uses the principle of quantum physics to realize unconditionally secure key distribution protocol. But this kind of security needs to be based on the authenticated classical channel. Although there are quantum key distribution protocols without classical channel, authentication is still needed. In the process of key distribution, authentication is not considered, which is also a problem of quantum key distribution protocol. In this paper, a quantum key distribution protocol with two-way authentication is proposed. Identity authentication is carried out at the same time of key distribution. If the identity authentication fails, the key distribution protocol cannot be carried out. If the key distribution protocol is aborted, the identity authentication is not successful. The conclusion of this paper is based on a central authentication system supported by symmetric encryption theory, which uses pseudo-random functions, multiple sets of quantum conjugate bases and Measurement-device-independent technology to simultaneously achieve two-way authentication and key distribution.

DOI
10.1007/s11082-021-02845-8

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Abstract Quantum key distribution uses the principle of quantum physics to realize unconditionally secure key distribution protocol. But this kind of security needs to be based on the authenticated classical channel. Although there are quantum key distribution protocols without classical channel, authentication is still needed. In the process of key distribution, authentication is not considered, which is also a problem of quantum key distribution protocol. In this paper, a quantum key distribution protocol with two-way authentication is proposed. Identity authentication is carried out at the same time of key distribution. If the identity authentication fails, the key distribution protocol cannot be carried out. If the key distribution protocol is aborted, the identity authentication is not successful. The conclusion of this paper is based on a central authentication system supported by symmetric encryption theory, which uses pseudo-random functions, multiple sets of quantum conjugate bases and Measurement-device-independent technology to simultaneously achieve two-way authentication and key distribution.
Abstract: Problem statement: In previous researches, we investigated the security of communication channels, which utilizes authentication, key distribution between two parties, error corrections and cost establishment. In the present work, we studied new concepts of Quantum Authentication (QA) and sharing key according to previous points. Approach: This study presented a new protocol concept that allows the session and key generation on-site by independently applying a cascade of two hash functions on a random string of bits at the sender and receiver sides. This protocol however, required a reliable method of authentication. It employed an out-of-band authentication methodology based on quantum theory, which uses entangled pairs of photons. Results: The proposed quantumauthenticated channel is secure in the presence of eavesdropper who has access to both the classical and the quantum channels. Conclusion/Recommendations: The key distribution process using cascaded hash functions provides better security. The concepts presented by this protocol represent a valid approach to the communication security problem.
This paper discusses the quantum one-way function and the information-splitting principle,proposes an identity authentication and key distribution protocol.It uses the trusted server provides random dentity and completes the final confirmation of the protocol.Key distribution is interspersed in the authentication process.Quantum one-way function can improve the authentication security.Experimental results show that the quantum communication technology about the protocol is easy to implement and can improve the efficiency of key distribution.
We propose a Quantum Authentication and Key distribution protocol based on one-time n using one-way Hash function. The designated users can authenticate each other and the arbitrator using their one-time ID and distribute a quantum secret key using remained GHZ states after authentication procedure. Though the help of the arbitrator is needed in the process of authentication and key distribution, our protocol prevents the arbitrator from finding out the shared secret key even if the arbitrator becomes an active attacker. Unconditional security can be proved in our protocol as the other QKD protocols.
The paper addresses entity authentication in quantum key distribution (QKD) systems as a decisive condition of their practical security. It is shown that the information-theoretic security of quantum key agreement does not eliminate the need to authenticate the communicating parties: an unauthenticated classical channel leaves the system exposed to the man-in-the-middle attack, since the eavesdropper can run independent QKD instances with each party and reconcile two keys under full control. Existing authentication methods are analysed and classified by the underlying cryptographic primitive: symmetric schemes based on Wegman–Carter universal hashing, pre-shared and fixed keys, public-key infrastructure, two-way authentication, quantum entity/identity authentication, and zero-knowledge proofs. For each class the operating principle, advantages and limitations are determined, with emphasis on key management, scalability and trust distribution. It is established that symmetric and quantum-layer methods rely on pre-shared secrets with a quadratic growth of key material, public-key infrastructure introduces a single trust bottleneck and quantum-vulnerable primitives, while existing zero-knowledge authentication schemes are quantum and bound to the physical layer or solve network properties other than identity. A comparative analysis reveals an unresolved scientific gap: the absence of a scalable entity-authentication method that simultaneously provides non-disclosure of the secret, quantum resistance, sub-quadratic scalability and minimisation of trust assumptions. On this basis, a prospective research direction is substantiated – the construction of entity-authentication methods based on post-quantum zero-knowledge proofs operating over the classical control plane of scalable QKD networks. The requirements for such a method are formulated, and its compatibility with formal QKD security proofs is discussed.
Quantum key distribution (QKD) provides unconditional physical layer security for the distribution of encryption keys between legitimate parties. This paper presents a quantum key distribution protocol over a two-way quantum channel. This protocol does not require any classical communication channel for key sifting and key reconciliation. Utilizing the proposed protocol, one can reduce the overhead in the classical channel and increase the speed with which keys can be exchanged. Absence of a classical communication channel reduces operational overhead.
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.