QKD SYSTEM NETWORK

摘要

QKD system networks (50, 200, 300) and method s of communicating between end-users (P1, P2) over same are disclosed. An example QKD system network (50) includes a first QKD station (A1) and a second QKD station (A2) with a relay station (58) in between. The relay station includes a single third QKD station (B) and an optical switch (55). The optical switch allows the third QKD station to alternately communicate with the first and second QKD stations so as to establish a common key between the first and second QKD stations. The end-users are coupled to respective QKD stations A1 and A2. A secret key (S) is shared between P1 and P2 by QKD station B being able to independently form keys with A1 and A2. This basic system, represented as P1-A1-B-A2-P2, can be expanded into more complex linear networks, such as P1-A1-B1-A2-B2-P2 with B1 and A2 making up the relays. The basic QKD system network can also be expanded into multi-dimensions.