Multi-node quantum key distribution network using existing underground optical fibre infrastructure

Fuente: arXiv
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Autori principali: Minder, Mariella, Siakolas, Andreas, Yerolatsitis, Stephanos, Katzis, Konstantinos, Kalli, Kyriacos
Natura: Preprint
Pubblicazione: 2025
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author Minder, Mariella
Siakolas, Andreas
Yerolatsitis, Stephanos
Katzis, Konstantinos
Kalli, Kyriacos
author_facet Minder, Mariella
Siakolas, Andreas
Yerolatsitis, Stephanos
Katzis, Konstantinos
Kalli, Kyriacos
contents Quantum key distribution (QKD) offers unconditional information security by allowing two distant users to establish a common encryption key resilient to hacking. Resultingly, QKD networks interconnecting critical infrastructure and enabling the secure exchange of classified information, can provide a solution to the increasing number of successful cyberattacks. To efficiently deploy quantum networks, the technology must be integrated over existing communication infrastructure, such as optical fibre links. Yet, QKD poses stringent requirements on the conditions of the network over which it is deployed. This work demonstrates the first quantum communication network in Cyprus via the deployment of a multi-node quantum network, exploiting existing commercial underground optical fibre. The network employs bidirectional occupation of fibres and wavelength multiplexing in a ring architecture to achieve, with minimal use of dark fibres, high-rate QKD. Results obtained reveal consistent key generation rates across all nodes, confirming reliable operation in a real-world environment. This deployment highlights the feasibility of leveraging existing telecom infrastructure for quantum-secured communication, marking a significant step toward scalable and cost-effective quantum networks suited for critical applications.
format Preprint
id arxiv_https___arxiv_org_abs_2512_02701
institution arXiv
publishDate 2025
record_format arxiv
spellingShingle Multi-node quantum key distribution network using existing underground optical fibre infrastructure
Minder, Mariella
Siakolas, Andreas
Yerolatsitis, Stephanos
Katzis, Konstantinos
Kalli, Kyriacos
Quantum Physics
Quantum key distribution (QKD) offers unconditional information security by allowing two distant users to establish a common encryption key resilient to hacking. Resultingly, QKD networks interconnecting critical infrastructure and enabling the secure exchange of classified information, can provide a solution to the increasing number of successful cyberattacks. To efficiently deploy quantum networks, the technology must be integrated over existing communication infrastructure, such as optical fibre links. Yet, QKD poses stringent requirements on the conditions of the network over which it is deployed. This work demonstrates the first quantum communication network in Cyprus via the deployment of a multi-node quantum network, exploiting existing commercial underground optical fibre. The network employs bidirectional occupation of fibres and wavelength multiplexing in a ring architecture to achieve, with minimal use of dark fibres, high-rate QKD. Results obtained reveal consistent key generation rates across all nodes, confirming reliable operation in a real-world environment. This deployment highlights the feasibility of leveraging existing telecom infrastructure for quantum-secured communication, marking a significant step toward scalable and cost-effective quantum networks suited for critical applications.
title Multi-node quantum key distribution network using existing underground optical fibre infrastructure
topic Quantum Physics
url https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.02701