Two-dimensional distributed-phase-reference protocol for quantum key distribution

Understand

Quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum communication enable the secure exchange of information between remote parties.

• Currently, the distributed-phase-reference (DPR) protocols, which are based on weak coherent pulses, are among the most practical solutions for long-range QKD.
• During the last 10 years, long-distance fiber-based DPR systems have been successfully demonstrated, although fundamental obstacles such as intrinsic channel losses limit their performance.
• Here, we introduce the first two-dimensional DPR-QKD protocol in which information is encoded in the time and phase of weak coherent pulses.