Distributed Proof-of-Work with Quantum Key Distribution for Secure Computation

Jincheng Zhang

Published Sep 2, 2026• 0 citations

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel approach to distributed consensus, termed "Distributed Proof-of-Work with Quantum Key Distribution (DPoW-QKD)," which addresses the limitations of traditional Proof-of-Work (PoW) systems. PoW's inherent energy consumption and susceptibility to attacks are well-documented. The core innovation lies in leveraging Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to establish a secure channel for generating and validating PoW blocks. This eliminates the need for computationally intensive hashing algorithms, drastically reducing energy expenditure while simultaneously providing a robust defense against malicious actors. The system utilizes QKD to generate a shared secret key between participating nodes, which is then employed to securely generate and verify the PoW solution. The proposed mechanism significantly enhances security and efficiency, offering a pathway towards more sustainable and resilient distributed systems. Mathematical models and formal descriptions are provided to illustrate the key components and operational principles of DPoW-QKD. The performance of the system is analyzed considering factors like key distribution rate, block validation time, and overall network latency. This research presents a foundational framework for exploring QKD-enhanced distributed consensus protocols.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.22246928

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