Fast quantum key distribution with decoy number states

TL;DR

This paper explores a photon number state method to enhance quantum key distribution security and rate, overcoming detector dead time limitations with novel schemes that detect eavesdropping more effectively.

Contribution

It introduces two QKD schemes using photon number states, one overcoming detector dead time limits, advancing secure quantum communication techniques.

Findings

Photon number states can identify eavesdropping attacks.

A QKD scheme surpassing detector dead time limitations.

Enhanced key generation rates in QKD systems.

Abstract

We investigate the use of photon number states to identify eavesdropping attacks on quantum key distribution (QKD) schemes. The technique is based on the fact that different photon numbers traverse a channel with different transmittivity. We then describe two QKD schemes that utilize this method, one of which overcomes the upper limit on the key generation rate imposed by the dead time of detectors when using a heralded source of photons.