Security of Binary-Modulated Optical Key Distribution Against Quantum-Enhanced Coherent Eavesdropping

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the security of optical key distribution systems that utilize binary modulation, specifically against advanced eavesdroppers with quantum-enhanced detection capabilities, highlighting their robustness and practical implementation advantages.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive security analysis of optical key distribution against quantum-enhanced eavesdroppers, demonstrating its resilience and practicality over standard quantum key distribution.

Findings

OKD is secure against coherent detection eavesdroppers

OKD can be implemented with standard optical components

The security holds even against quantum-optimal measurements

Abstract

Optical key distribution (OKD) protects the physical layer of communication links by taking advantage of the inherent noise present in the photodetection process. It allows for efficient generation of a shared random key between two distant users which can subsequently be used for cryptographic purposes secure against passive eavesdropping. Moreover, it can be straightforwardly implemented over standard intensity modulation and direct detection links, making it an attractive alternative to quantum key distribution. Here we present a comprehensive security analysis against more powerful eavesdroppers possessing either the ability to perform coherent detection, or even quantum-optimal measurements on the intercepted transmission.