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Quantum key distribution using card, base station and trusted authority

J. E. Nordholt

Published Jan 23, 2023• 1 citation
OpenAlex

Abstract

Techniques and tools for quantum key distribution ("QKD") between a quantum communication ("QC") card, base station and trusted authority are described herein. In example implementations, a QC card contains a miniaturized QC transmitter and couples with a base station. The base station provides a network connection with the trusted authority and can also provide electric power to the QC card. When coupled to the base station, after authentication by the trusted authority, the QC card acquires keys through QKD with a trusted authority. The keys can be used to set up secure communication, for authentication, for access control, or for other purposes. The QC card can be implemented as part of a smart phone or other mobile computing device, or the QC card can be used as a fillgun for distribution of the keys.

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Proceedings of SPIE, the International Society for Optical Engineering/Proceedings of SPIE•Mar 16, 2016•14 citations
Techniques and tools for quantum key distribution ("QKD") between a quantum communication ("QC") card, base station and trusted authority are described herein. In example implementations, a QC card contains a miniaturized QC transmitter and couples with a base station. The base station provides a network connection with the trusted authority and can also provide electric power to the QC card. When coupled to the base station, after authentication by the trusted authority, the QC card acquires keys through QKD with a trusted authority. The keys can be used to set up secure communication, for authentication, for access control, or for other purposes. The QC card can be implemented as part of a smart phone or other mobile computing device, or the QC card can be used as a fillgun for distribution of the keys.
Techniques and tools for implementing protocols for secure multi-party communication after quantum key distribution ("QKD") are described herein. In example implementations, a trusted authority facilitates secure communication between multiple user devices. The trusted authority distributes different quantum keys by QKD under trust relationships with different users. The trusted authority determines combination keys using the quantum keys and makes the combination keys available for distribution (e.g., for non-secret distribution over a public channel). The combination keys facilitate secure communication between two user devices even in the absence of QKD between the two user devices. With the protocols, benefits of QKD are extended to multi-party communication scenarios. In addition, the protocols can retain benefit of QKD even when a trusted authority is offline or a large group seeks to establish secure communication within the group.
Sixth-generation (6G) networks offer unprecedented ultra-reliability, capacity, and low-latency communication. Nevertheless, the same developments also pose security threats to complex communication infrastructures that may be resistant to traditional cryptographic tools, especially in the context of quantum computing. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is an innovative technique for achieving unconditional security that leverages quantum-mechanical principles to share cryptographic keys securely. This paper discusses how QKD can be integrated into 6G and beyond networks and used to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data across applications such as autonomous systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), and smart city infrastructure. This paper explores the architecture of QKD-based 6G communication, key-generation systems, and quantum-resistant network layers. It also examines scalability, synchronization, and hardware implementation, and suggests possible hybrid approaches for integrating classical and quantum security protocols. The results imply that the idea of QKD may become the foundation of safeguarded communication systems in the future, ensuring resilience against attacks in the quantum era and enabling individuals to trust the next generation of wireless.
As the world rapidly embraces quantum technologies, the need for robust quantum security protocols becomes increasingly paramount. Quantum key distribution (QKD) has been at the forefront of secure key exchange, but establishing a root of trust remains unaddressed. This research article presents a pioneering approach for global system for mobile communications (GSM) that bridges the gap between QKD and device identity verification. Our approach utilizes single-qubit states and amplitude encoding, integrating the BB84 protocol to securely share secret keys between entities. We implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to further protect against attacks and unauthorized access. Unlike entangled state-based schemes that require quantum memory and face practical implementation challenges, our single-qubit approach avoids these issues, making it feasible with current technology. Central to our approach is the verification of the subscriber identity module (SIM) card holder’s authenticity using the quantum prover authentication protocol (QuPAP) at the mobile authentication Center. This quantum cryptography-based process enhances GSM communication security and can be integrated into existing networks with minimal modifications. Our proposed smartphone, equipped with dual SIM capabilities—one conventional (cSIM) and one quantum (QuSIM)—ensures compatibility with both current and future networks, allowing the benefits of quantum security without requiring a complete system overhaul. By integrating quantum security into classical GSM protocols, our scheme not only enhances security but also addresses crucial aspects of device identity authentication, attestation, and trust establishment. The security and performance analysis of the QuPAP prototype demonstrates a quantum leap in mobile security, fostering a future of trust, privacy, and resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of communication technologies.
Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a sophisticated method for securing information by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics. Its objective is to establish a confidential key between authorized partners who are connected via both a quantum channel and a classical authentication channel. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of QKD protocols, chip-based QKD systems, quantum light sources, quantum detectors, fiber-based QKD networks, space-based QKD systems, as well as the applications and prospects of QKD technology.
Unlike currently implemented encryption schemes, Quantum Key Distribution provides a secure way of generating and distributing a key among two parties. Although a multitude of research platforms has been developed, the integration of QKD units within classical communication systems remains a tremendous challenge. The recently achieved maturity of integrated photonic technologies could be exploited to create miniature QKD add-ons that could extend the primary function of various existing systems such as mobile devices or optical stations. In this work we report on an integrated optics module enabling secure short-distance communication for, e.g., quantum access schemes. Using BB84-like protocols, Alice's mobile low-cost device can exchange secure key and information everywhere within a trusted node network. The new optics platform (35×20×8mm) compatible with current smartphone's technology generates NIR faint polarised laser pulses with 100MHz repetition rate. Fully automated beam tracking and live basis-alignment on Bob's side ensure user-friendly operation with a quantum link efficiency as high as 50% stable over a few seconds.