Key Management Systems for Large-Scale Quantum Key Distribution Networks

Authors: Paul James, Stephan Laschet, Sebastian Ramacher, Luca Torresetti
URL: https://doi.org/10.1145/3600160.3605050

The Key Management System (KMS) is an important component in scaling up from link-to-link key generation to large key distribution networks. In this work we provide an overview of a KMS in the context of Quantum Key Distribution Networks (QKDN) and give a thorough summary of the functionality of a KMS in such an application. Beyond classical QKDNs, we discuss Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC) hybridization techniques at the KMS level. These methods add an additional layer of security against quantum computer driven attacks. We also discuss selected topics regarding the development, deployment and operation of components for such security infrastructure. In addition, relevant standards in the realm of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) are outlined and analyzed. As some of the necessary interfaces have not been standardized, namely the interface between two KMS instances and the interface between the KMS and the Software Defined Network (SDN) Agent, we propose APIs for these two cases. The design of the interface between the KMS and QKD modules is discussed and, considering their resource constraints, a push mode for the ETSI GS QKD 004 standard is proposed. Finally, implementation details of a prototype KMS are outlined and trade-offs are discussed.

ABOUT QCI-CAT

Building on the long research experience of Austrian institutions in the field of quantum technologies, the project QCI-CAT aims at an adoption of modern encryption technology based on QKD for highly secure communication between public authorities.

QCI-CAT will investigate and verify new security applications for public authorities, such as secret sharing and message authentication.

Additionally, QCI-CAT will also leverage a research testbed for new technological approaches such as the combination of post-quantum encryption with QKD, long-distance QKD with secured trusted nodes and field trials of quantum repeaters.

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This project has received funding from the DIGITAL-2021-QCI-01 Digital European Program under Project number No 101091642 and the National Foundation for Research, Technology and Development.