Mode-pairing quantum key distribution based on wavelength division multiplexing in multi-user networks

• Published in: Physica scripta Vol. 99; no. 8; pp. 85112 - 85117
• Main Authors: Cui, Wei, Yang, Chen, Huang, Guoqi, Jiao, Rongzhen
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: IOP Publishing 01.08.2024
• Subjects: mode-pairing quantum key distribution; quantum communication networks; wavelength division multiplexing
• ISSN: 0031-8949; 1402-4896
• DOI: 10.1088/1402-4896/ad5f61

Abstract Mode-pairing quantum key distribution (MP-QKD), a protocol that combines high performance and flexibility, not only eliminates the need for global phase locking but also beats the rate-transmittance bound. Such remarkable characteristics are poised to further advance the practical application of quantum communication networks. In this paper, MP-QKD is extended to the scenario of multi-user communication networks. MP-QKD enables concurrent operation across multiple channels by integrating wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology, facilitating secure communication among multiple users. The performance of MP-QKD in multi-channel concurrent operation is analyzed through simulating various experimental conditions. The asymmetric MP-QKD case is also considered and pulse intensity optimization improves performance for asymmetric network channels. These results delineate the performance of MP-QKD with WDM technology, highlighting its significant potential for application in quantum communication networks.