Authentication for Quantum Networks is a two‑day workshop bringing together researchers from quantum communications, classical cryptography, theory, experiment, and industry to explore the authentication requirements that underpin secure quantum communication and future quantum networks.

Although QKD is often presented as providing information‑theoretic security, every QKD system depends on an authenticated classical channel. The details of how authentication is achieved, what resources it requires, and what level of security it offers are not always widely discussed within the quantum community. In light of recent scrutiny from organisations such as NCSC and NSA, there is a growing need for clearer understanding across the field.

The workshop aims to provide this broader perspective. The programme will combine accessible introductory tutorials with more technical talks, contributions from experimental groups working on authentication for QKD, and insights from industry on practical deployment. A poster session will give PhD students, postdocs, and other researchers an opportunity to present their work and engage with the community.