GS QKD 004-2010 PDF

Scope: The present document is intended to describe the interface between security applications and a QKD key management layer@ which is an additional layer that sits between the QKD systems and various applications. Key Management in general@ covers the exchange@ storage@ protection@ use@ identification@ installation@ replacement and destruction of cryptographic keys. A QKD system may provide keys for a Key Management System. QKD@ like most key distribution protocols@ requires a distributed key management process that operates in a symmetric (vs. server/client) mode. So both key management peers shall negotiate and verify all reservations and allocations. The QKD protocol generates a pool of ordered secure bits. The function of this key management layer is to demultiplex these bits into separate@ ordered groups@ where each group is used independently by applications and thus shall be synchronized between the two communication end points. By synchronized we mean that a group of secure bits reserved at one communication end point are identical to the associated group at the other communication end point. It is also required that these same secure bits are then discarded by this layer once they are used and never revealed to anyone else.

GS QKD 004-2010 history

2010 GS QKD 004-2010 Quantum Key Distribution (QKD); Application Interface (V1.1.1)