QKD on Quantum Networks

Deborah J. Jackson, D. P. Gilliam, Jonathan P. Dowling

Yuan Cao, Yongli Zhao, Jie Zhang +1 more

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is an essential branch of quantum communications that facilitates future-proof security. In the near future, large-scale quantum networks will inevitably encounter diverse QKD protocols, ultimately resulting in a multi-protocol quantum network. Motivated by the evolution of advanced QKD protocols, this article introduces a pivotal enabler for multi-protocol quantum networks: software-defined heterogeneous QKD chaining (HQKDC). In contrast to the conventional QKD chain using a single protocol and a single connectivity pattern, a heterogeneous QKD chain is established relying on multiple protocols and diverse connectivity patterns. We elaborate the HQKDC framework by describing the structures of various QKD chains and proposing an architecture of software-defined HQKDC over optical networks. The software defined networking paradigm and optical networks can facilitate the orchestration and deployment of heterogeneous QKD chains, respectively. Furthermore, we present and evaluate the strategies for heterogeneous QKD chain deployment, as well as devise and demonstrate the workflow for heterogeneous QKD chain orchestration. Finally, we discuss open issues toward the practical QKD network and quantum Internet.

Siddarth Koduru Joshi

Osman Semi Ceylan, İhsan Yılmaz

Abstract Quantum technological developments offers a great promise for implementing secure quantum internet. In this study, we propose a ring topology-based quantum network with QKD and QDS for the quantum internet. The combination of QKD and QDS allows both the detection of the intruder and the increase in security in the network. The proposed network has been demonstrated to work by being implemented in the SQUANCH network simulator [1].

Vlatko Vedral

Lijun Mink, Xiao Tang

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a number of complete fiber-based high-speed quantum key distribution (QKD) systems that includes an 850 nm QKD system for a local area network (LAN), a 1310 nm QKD system for a metropolitan area network (MAN), and a 3-node quantum network controlled by a network manager. This paper discusses the key techniques used to implement these systems, which include polarization recovery, noise reduction, frequency up-conversion detection based on a periodically polled lithium nitrate (PPLN) waveguide, custom high-speed data handling boards and quantum network management. Using our quantum network, a QKD secured video surveillance application has been demonstrated. Our intention is to show the feasibility and sophistication of QKD systems based on current technology.