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International Journal of Advanced Engineering Application

ISSN: 3048-6807

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Quantum Key Distribution in Optical Communication Networks

Author(s):Ramesh Penduparthi1, Kavitha Reddy 2, Karthik V.M.Srinivasalu3

Affiliation: 1,2,3Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Amrita Sai Institute of Science and Technology, Bathinapadu,India

Page No: 25-28

Volume issue & Publishing Year: Volume 2 Issue 6,June-2025

Journal: International Journal of Advanced Engineering Application (IJAEA)

ISSN NO: 3048-6807

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17657638

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Abstract:
The increasing reliance on optical communication networks for high-speed data transmission has amplified concerns regarding secure information exchange in the era of quantum computing. Classical cryptographic protocols such as RSA and ECC, though widely deployed, are vulnerable to attacks from large-scale quantum computers executing Shor’s algorithm. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) has emerged as a revolutionary cryptographic paradigm that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to enable theoretically unbreakable key exchange. This paper investigates the integration of QKD into optical communication networks, focusing on protocol design, implementation challenges, and potential scalability. Through scenario-based evaluation, the study highlights the trade-offs between quantum security and practical deployment constraints such as channel loss, photon detector efficiency, and key generation rates. Results from simulated models demonstrate that while QKD can achieve provable security in metropolitan-area networks, long-distance transmission requires advanced techniques such as quantum repeaters and trusted nodes. This work concludes that QKD offers a promising pathway toward quantum-safe communication but necessitates advancements in hardware, standardization, and hybrid cryptographic strategies for widespread adoption.

Keywords: Quantum Key Distribution, Optical Networks, Quantum Cryptography, BB84 Protocol, Quantum Repeaters, Secure Communication

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