Performance Guarantees in Quantum Key Distribution Networks

Abstract

This paper aims to present a mathematical tool useful for quantum key distribution network configuration. In particular, the paper studies the throughput of secret key distribution in a quantum key distribution network with trusted repeaters. In addition, the backlog of secret keys at a trusted repeater is also investigated. The analysis is based on the queueing principle of secret keys in the trusted repeater, implied by that the transmission of secret keys in the network is store-andforward. The obtained results are applied to a discrete-variable protocol with weak coherent pulse sources, where realistic system parameters are integrated in the analysis. It is shown that, if the secret key rates on the transmission path are different, the transient throughput of secret key distribution through the network also vary, located between an upper bound and a lower bound on the secrete key distribution rate.

Performance analysis of quantum channels

“…As an outlook, we list some potential research topics as follows. Analysis of diverse quantum channel models, for example, multiple access channel, broadcast channel, and multi‐hop channel . In this article, we have considered performance analysis in a single channel scenario.…”

“…It is interesting to use this framework to investigate the one‐shot scenario to demonstrate the impact of the constraints in reality. Application to more quantum channels in practice and investigation of the impact of different system parameters and the performance of different protocol stacks . An example is the analysis of end‐to‐end secrete key rate in quantum key distribution networks . In this article, we have considered the bosonic channel and the qubit channel, with a default application to quantum communication.…”

“…Analysis of diverse quantum channel models, for example, multiple access channel, 53 broadcast channel, 54 and multi-hop channel. 55 In this article, we have considered performance analysis in a single channel scenario. It is interesting to consider the performance analysis at network scale.…”

“…48 An example is the analysis of end-to-end secrete key rate in quantum key distribution networks. 55 In this article, we have considered the bosonic channel and the qubit channel, 46,58,59 with a default application to quantum communication. It is interesting to apply this analysis framework to other quantum systems, for example, quantum memory and storage.…”

Performance Analysis of Quantum Channels

“…1) Analysis of diverse quantum channel models, e.g., multiple access channel [31], broadcast channel [32], and multi-hop channel [33]. In this paper, we have considered performance analysis in a single channel scenario.…”