A system is only as strong as its weakest link! In this way the IQN Hub research team is working to enhance the security of QKD links via a multi-layered approach. QKD requires the communicating parties to be correctly identified beforehand, while algorithmic encryption schemes provide an added layer of security against undetected failure of the QKD system.
Post quantum cryptography (PQC) schemes will be designed for use in PQC+QKD applications, and identification schemes based on non-quantum and quantum techniques will be developed.
The schemes can be products on their own, competing with those in the marketplace. Additionally, enhancing the security of QKD will advance the market for QKD technology.
The research team will develop secure random numbers as well as extending the range of QKD.
Provably secure random numbers are essential for QKD and other security applications. Extending the range of QKD will remove the need for trusted nodes, a potential security risk.
The random numbers will be created using device-independent quantum random number generation (QRNG), whose security can be black-box tested without characterisation of the workings of the QNRG device. The QKD range will be extended with twin-field QKD, a recent protocol that extends the range of earlier QKD schemes.
Both types of devices can supplant existing QRNG and QKD systems, if any reduction in data rate and increase in price is compensated for by the enhanced security.
The team will also lead the development of documented test procedures (i.e. standards) and metrology for quantum communication technologies emerging from the Hub.
