A Guide to Global Quantum Key Distribution Networks
This guide helps network architects and engineers understand and plan the deployment of secure global communication networks using QKD technologies, addressing the challenge of secure key distribution over various distances and topologies.
This paper provides a guide for deploying global quantum key distribution (QKD) networks across various segments, including transoceanic, long-haul, metro, and access. It compares state-of-the-art QKD technologies, such as fiber-based and spaceborne solutions, based on factors like channel loss, distance, and cost, to determine their suitability for different network segments.
We describe systems and methods for the deployment of global quantum key distribution (QKD) networks covering transoceanic, long-haul, metro, and access segments of the network. A comparative study of the state-of-the-art QKD technologies is carried out, including both terrestrial QKD via optical fibers and free-space optics, as well as spaceborne solutions via satellites. We compare the pros and cons of various existing QKD technologies, including channel loss, potential interference, distance, connection topology, deployment cost and requirements, as well as application scenarios. Technical selection criteria and deployment requirements are developed for various different QKD solutions in each segment of networks. For example, optical fiber-based QKD is suitable for access networks due to its limited distance and compatibility with point-to-multipoint (P2MP) topology; with the help of trusted relays, it can be extended to long-haul and metro networks. Spaceborne QKD on the other hand, has much smaller channel loss and extended transmission distance, which can be used for transoceanic and long-haul networks exploiting satellite-based trusted relays.