NIST researchers have developed a quantum key distribution (QKD) system that generates “unbreakable” encryption codes at record speeds over optical fiber. The system uses single photons to create a binary code for encrypting information, with the rules of quantum mechanics ensuring that any eavesdropping is detected. The NIST QKD system achieved a key generation rate of over 4 million bits per second over 1 kilometer of fiber, twice the speed of their previous record, with an error rate of only 3.6%. The researchers plan to further process the raw key to generate a “secret” key at about half the original speed, enabling real-time encryption and decryption of video signals at higher resolutions.
The NIST system is part of a testbed for demonstrating and measuring the performance of quantum communication technologies. The researchers aim to build a prototype high-speed quantum network in their lab, which would allow viewing QKD-secured video signals sent by two cameras at different locations. Applications for high-speed QKD include distribution of sensitive remote video, such as satellite imagery, confidential healthcare and financial data, and secure communications for military operations.
Keywords: quantum physics, quantum key distribution, quantum encryption, photon, quantum key, fiber QKD system, QKD-secured video signals, encryption codes, verifiably secure, secure key exchange, quantum communication technologies
