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Next-Generation Optical Communication: Components, Sub-Systems, and Systems

SDN-enabled CV-QKD for quantum secure communication in open and disaggregated 6G networks

Michela Svaluto Moreolo, Masab Iqbal, Laia Nadal, Raül Muñoz, Juan Morales, Antonio Pastor, Rafael Canto, S. Etcheverry, Borja Villanueva, Iván Núñez, José Cunha

Published Mar 8, 2024• 12 citations
Publisher

Abstract

To face the challenges of open and disaggregated 6G networks and the prospect/threat of quantum computing, we propose to adopt continuous-variable QKD (CV-QKD), as a promising technology compatible and suitable to be integrated with conventional optical systems, in combination with software defined networking (SDN). In this work, we present our most recent advances on SDN-enabled flexible CV-QKD for future secure communications. We describe the proposed network architecture, identifying the relevant parameters and interfaces. We consider and analyze a Gaussian-modulated coherent state CV-QKD system, reporting recent experimental results at the varying of the QKD system wavelength, as relevant adaptable parameter, that can be configured by the SDN controller, for distributing highly secure keys in metropolitan networks. The capabilities and potentialities of our proposed approach for future secure communications in open and disaggregated 6G networks are also discussed.

DOI
10.1117/12.3002510

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•Dec 15, 2025•0 citations
To face the challenges of open and disaggregated 6G networks and the prospect/threat of quantum computing, we propose to adopt continuous-variable QKD (CV-QKD), as a promising technology compatible and suitable to be integrated with conventional optical systems, in combination with software defined networking (SDN). In this work, we present our most recent advances on SDN-enabled flexible CV-QKD for future secure communications. We describe the proposed network architecture, identifying the relevant parameters and interfaces. We consider and analyze a Gaussian-modulated coherent state CV-QKD system, reporting recent experimental results at the varying of the QKD system wavelength, as relevant adaptable parameter, that can be configured by the SDN controller, for distributing highly secure keys in metropolitan networks. The capabilities and potentialities of our proposed approach for future secure communications in open and disaggregated 6G networks are also discussed.
Several technological challenges are currently posed by future 6G networks to support ultra-high capacity and dynamic connectivity, while ensuring environmental and societal sustainability, scalability, and reliability. Among them, security is a crucial aspect, particularly considering open and disaggregated networks. Continuous variable quantum key distribution (CV -QKD) is proposed as an appealing solution to ensure long-term security, while facilitating the coexistence with conventional optical communications for a sustainable integration of QKD technology in future 6G networks. In this work, the adoption of CV -QKD in future optical networks is discussed, focusing on the network resources and infrastructure sharing, exploring advanced features, flexibility and programmability, further enabled by software defined networking (SDN).
To face the quantum era and the prospect or threat of quantum computing, especially in a disaggregated network environment, the design and implementation of efficient quantum secure communication systems facilitating their integration in the optical network infrastructure is crucial. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is one of the most promising technologies to ensure long-term security. In particular, continuous-variable QKD results as an efficient solution more compatible and suitable to be integrated with conventional optical systems. In this work, quantum secure systems based on QKD for enabling a smooth and sustainable integration in optical networks are introduced, considering the related challenges, towards future secure 6G networks.
Future optical networks, envisioning the support of 6G services and related demanding requirements, should provide ultra-high-capacity and reliable connectivity, ensuring sustainability and security. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a technology to address the limitations of classical cryptography, enabling quantum secure communications. Continuous variable QKD (CV-QKD) offers potential cost savings and enhanced compatibility with classical systems. This facilitates the integration within the network infrastructure, particularly in synergy with software-defined networking (SDN), further promoting interoperability and resource sharing/saving. For the adoption and practical implementation of CV-QKD, it is relevant to consider composable security and a finite number of symbols employed in the protocol (block size). In this work, we present the comparison of two models, to provide a figure of the required block size. We also assess the results using a simulation software. Furthermore, we explore a coexistence scenario considering a flexible grid, to exploit the CV-QKD capability of arbitrarily tuning the operating wavelength. This is a relevant feature enabling flexible allocation of the quantum channel to mitigate impairment and saving spectral resources. Considering realistic parameters aligned to commercially available CV-QKD systems and finite block size, we show an improvement with respect to our previous results. A minimum quantum-classical channel spacing of 112.5 GHz is required in a coexistence scenario with 8×200G transceivers and 9 dBm of total power over a 15 km link. In case of 10 dBm of total power, 125 GHz quantum-classical channel spacing is required to generate keys for practical implementation over the analyzed links. Finally, we discuss SDN aspects relevant for dynamic quantum channel allocation and flexible network management, enabling coexistence and efficient resource sharing, facilitating QKD technology integration in deployed networks. The presented results and envisioned potentialities of CV-QKD for practical implementation in optical networks pave the way for its adoption in the network infrastructure toward future quantum secure communications.
Continuous variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) is arising as an attractive technology for quantum secure communications in future optical networks, thanks to its higher compatibility with conventional telecommunication systems. In fact, CV-QKD adopts opto-electronic devices of coherent optical systems, enabling the use of commercial off-the-shelf components (COTS) and photonic integrated circuits (PICs). This favors a faster and sustainable adoption of this technology in optical networks. Also, smoother integration within the network infrastructure can be envisioned, in coexistence with classical communications, further facilitated and accelerated by software defined networking (SDN). In this invited contribution, the adoption of CV-QKD in future optical networks is discussed, presenting our recent results.
Optical transport networks are evolving toward unprecedented capacity, sustainability, and security requirements. We present an SDN-enabled architecture for integrating continuous variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) into programmable optical networks, adopting sliceable bandwidth/bitrate variable transceivers (S-BVTs) and/or pluggable modules. The proposed solution combines a TeraFlowSDN-based SD-QKD network controller with a reconfigurable CV-QKD system through interfaces compliant with ETSI GS QKD 015. Experimental validation demonstrates real-time monitoring and dynamic wavelength (re)configuration, facilitating coexistence. Alternative dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) co-propagation scenarios are presented, and flexible channel allocation strategies are analyzed and discussed. Simulation results further evaluate evolutionary scenarios involving coexistence with 400G pluggable modules at 0 dBm launch power. The analysis identifies the maximum number of supported classical channels (up to 20 over a 20 km fiber link) and suitable spectral allocation in accordance with the experimental results. Furthermore, we compare the coexistence performance of CV-QKD adopting discrete components and an early version of a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) receiver, supporting half the number of 400G channels. Performance enhancement can be envisioned with further PIC design improvement and optimization. The obtained results confirm the viability of SDN-controlled CV-QKD as an enabler for quantum secure operation in future optical transport networks and a promising evolutionary path toward the adoption of this technology.
As quantum computers advance, they pose a growing threat to traditional encryption methods that protect sensitive information. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers a secure alternative by using quantum mechanics to create shared secret keys whose interception can be detected. Integrating this technology into existing networks is essential to enable quantum-safe communications without requiring new infrastructure. This dissertation explores how Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution (CV-QKD) systems can be integrated into current network infrastructures. It discusses relevant models, architectures, and standards that support this integration, focusing on how the SoftwareDefined Networking (SDN) model can standardize and simplify communication between QKD systems and traditional networks.