Technologies for Quantum Key Distribution Networks Integrated With Optical Communication Networks
Wakako Maeda, Akihiro Tanaka, Satoshi Takahashi, A. Tajima, Akihisa Tomita · IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics · 2009
Secure networks composed of optical networks and quantum key distribution (QKD) are considered in this paper. A network layer structure is defined to focus on issues important with respect to the QKD network layer that controls QKD links and supplies a secure key for message transmission. A multiple-user QKD network layer can be constructed with timing synchronization, secure key sharing between indirectly connected nodes with switched QKD systems and key relays, and key management to control the volume of key generation and supply in response to the demand from optical network nodes.