Systems and methods for path set-up in a quantum key distribution network

摘要

A system establishes a path for distributing data through an optical network ( 115 ). The system includes an optical switch ( 205 a) and a data distribution endpoint ( 105 a). The optical switch ( 205 a) establishes a first encryption key distribution path through the optical network ( 115 ), the first encryption key distribution path including multiple optical switches and optical links. The data distribution endpoint ( 105 a) determines whether eavesdropping has occurred on the first encryption key distribution path using quantum cryptography. The optical switch ( 205 a) further establishes a second data distribution path through the optical network ( 115 ) responsive to the eavesdropping determination. The second encryption key distribution path includes multiple optical switches and optical links.