SDN-enabled CV-QKD for quantum secure communication in open and disaggregated 6G networks
Michela Svaluto Moreolo, Masab Iqbal, Laia Nadal, Raül Muñoz, Juan Morales, Antonio Pastor, Rafael Canto, S. Etcheverry, Borja Villanueva, Iván Núñez, José Cunha
Abstract
To face the challenges of open and disaggregated 6G networks and the prospect/threat of quantum computing, we propose to adopt continuous-variable QKD (CV-QKD), as a promising technology compatible and suitable to be integrated with conventional optical systems, in combination with software defined networking (SDN). In this work, we present our most recent advances on SDN-enabled flexible CV-QKD for future secure communications. We describe the proposed network architecture, identifying the relevant parameters and interfaces. We consider and analyze a Gaussian-modulated coherent state CV-QKD system, reporting recent experimental results at the varying of the QKD system wavelength, as relevant adaptable parameter, that can be configured by the SDN controller, for distributing highly secure keys in metropolitan networks. The capabilities and potentialities of our proposed approach for future secure communications in open and disaggregated 6G networks are also discussed.