Recent Quantum Key Distribution Schemes

Ivan B. Djordjević

Jingran Wang, Weijia Xue, Wang Congli +1 more

ABSTRACT. Quantum key distribution (QKD) network develops rapidly in recent years. In order to improve the efficiency and security of quantum key distribution, this paper analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of single-path and multi-path quantum key distribution and proposes a multi-path quantum key distribution scheme. This scheme includes two aspects which are path equalization priority strategy and the No-public nodes strategy. The priority of the chosen path is based on the path bandwidth utilization, the number of routing hops and quantum keys stored in the trusted nodes. The no-public nodes strategy selects multiple key distribution paths without public nodes. The scheme can reduce the risk of path blocking and the consumption of quantum keys, improve the efficiency and security of QKD. Finally, this scheme is analyzed and verified.

Guoqing Cui, Yuan Lü, Guihua Zeng

Quantum key distribution (QKD) has been proposed for decades. Many applications have been deployed recently for both wired and wireless networks. Especially for optical networks, QKD technique has a great development. But in free-space quantum key distribution still has a lot of problems such as a low bit rate. In this paper we propose a new scheme, combining MIMO (Multiple input multiple output) system and wireless networks for QKD in free-space networks. With the proposed approach, a higher bit rate QKD networks in free-space could be realized theoretically.

Tapster, Gorman, Benton +3 more

Junaid ur Rehman, Youngmin Jeong, Hyundong Shin

Quantum key distribution (QKD) relies on randomness to exchange secret keys among the communicating parties. While ensuring the secrecy of the keys being distributed, independent randomness also causes to reduce the number of key bits that can be shared per quantum signal exchanged. Recently it was shown that it is possible to use pseudo-randomness in place of true randomness in the QKD without compromising the integrity of a QKD scheme. By the virtue of a short secret key — called a control key — shared among the key sharing parties, same pseudo-randomness can be generated at the transmitter and the receiver end that allow to obtain a higher key exchange rate. However, there are certain modifications which are necessary before pseudo-randomness can be safely employed in a QKD procedure. In this paper, we provide a modification of QKD schemes for a secure use with the control key. We modify the prepare-and-measure (BB84) type, and measurement-device independent protocols. We then verify the advantages of use of control key in terms of key rates for the modification of two QKD schemes.

Miralem Mehić, Stefan Raß, Peppino Fazio +1 more