Information security: from classical to quantum

Stephen M. Barnett; Thomas Brougham

doi:10.1117/12.974560

19 November 2012 Information security: from classical to quantum

Stephen M. Barnett, Thomas Brougham

Proceedings Volume 8542, Electro-Optical Remote Sensing, Photonic Technologies, and Applications VI; 85421I (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.974560
Event: SPIE Security + Defence, 2012, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Abstract

Quantum cryptography was designed to provide a new approach to the problem of distributing keys for private-key cryptography. The principal idea is that security can be ensured by exploiting the laws of quantum physics and, in particular, by the fact that any attempt to measure a quantum state will change it uncontrollably. This change can be detected by the legitimate users of the communication channel and so reveal to them the presence of an eavesdropper. In this paper I explain (briefly) how quantum key distribution works and some of the progress that has been made towards making this a viable technology. With the principles of quantum communication and quantum key distribution firmly established, it is perhaps time to consider how efficient it can be made. It is interesting to ask, in particular, how many bits of information might reasonably be encoded securely on each photon. The use of photons entangled in their time of arrival might make it possible to achieve data rates in excess of 10 bits per photon.

Citation Download Citation

Stephen M. Barnett and Thomas Brougham "Information security: from classical to quantum", Proc. SPIE 8542, Electro-Optical Remote Sensing, Photonic Technologies, and Applications VI, 85421I (19 November 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.974560

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