Patent ID: 7864958
Filing Date: 2011-01-04
Classification: G06F,H04L

Abstract:
1. A quantum key distribution (QKD) method comprising: sending random data from a QKD transmitter to a QKD receiver over a quantum signal channel, the QKD transmitter randomly selecting first bases for encoding the random data, the QKD receiver randomly selecting second bases to detect the random data, and the QKD transmitter and receiver respectively processing the random data transmitted and received over the quantum signal channel with the aid of first messages exchanged between them over an insecure classical communication channel in order to seek to derive a common random data set, the first exchanged messages enabling the QKD transmitter and receiver to determine for which bits of the random data the first bases selected by the QKD transmitter and the second bases selected by the QKD receiver are the same, said processing concluding with a check, effected by an exchange of second authenticated messages over the classical communication channel, that the QKD transmitter and receiver have derived the same said random data set, and at least some of the first messages exchanged during said processing being exchanged without the first messages being authenticated and integrity checked.