C-DOT and Sterlite Technologies Ltd. Test India's First Quantum Key Distribution Over Multi-Core Fibre

Multi-Core Fibre (MCF) technology enables data transmission across multiple cores within a single fibre, saving physical space and reducing infrastructure costs.

About Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

1. Definition: QKD is a secure method for exchanging encryption keys that are known only to the shared parties involved.
2. Working Principle: QKD leverages quantum mechanics to generate and distribute cryptographic keys using specialized technology.
3. Transmission Process: QKD works by transmitting light particles, or photons, through fiber optic cables between two parties.
   1. Each photon has a random quantum state.
   2. Collectively, these photons form a stream of ones and zeros, referred to as qubits.

Types of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

1. Entanglement-Based Protocols: This method generates pairs of entangled quantum states, where each party receives one photon from the pair.
2. Prepare-and-Measure Protocols: In this approach, the sender prepares a quantum state (often as a superposition of light polarization states) and sends it to the receiver, who then measures the quantum state.

Benefits of QKD

1. Eavesdropping Detection: QKD can detect and prevent eavesdropping attacks, ensuring secure communication.
2. Security: It offers an extremely high level of security by relying on the laws of quantum mechanics.

Limitations of QKD

1. Infrastructure Costs: Implementing QKD increases infrastructure expenses.
2. Specialized Equipment: The technology requires specialized hardware, making integration with existing networks more challenging.
3. Potential Risks: There are risks such as denial of service and other technical challenges in system deployment.

 

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