Efficient Solutions for Quantum Secure Communications in Future Optical Networks

To face the quantum era and the prospect or threat of quantum computing, especially in a disaggregated network environment, the design and implementation of efficient quantum secure communication systems facilitating their integration in the optical network infrastructure is crucial. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is one of the most promising technologies to ensure long-term security. In particular, continuous-variable QKD results as an efficient solution more compatible and suitable to be integrated with conventional optical systems. In this work, quantum secure systems based on QKD for enabling a smooth and sustainable integration in optical networks are introduced, considering the related challenges, towards future secure 6G networks.