Work

Efficient security analysis for quantum key distribution against side-channel leakage

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Quantum key distribution (QKD) allows the transmission of keys with unconditional security. Nevertheless, a discrepancy remains between the theoretical framework and the practical implementation, as device imperfections are frequently neglected in most QKD protocols. Some previous works proposed to use Hong-Ou-Mandel interference to quantify information leakage from side-channels. However, the security bound was relatively loose, resulting in poor performance. In this paper, we present an improved method for the security analysis of practical QKD protocols and provide a more precise parameter estimation. Furthermore, we apply it to several important QKD protocols, including BB84, measurement-device-independent, and twin-field, and carry out corresponding numerical simulations. Our work demonstrates significant improvements in both the key rate and the transmission distance compared to previous methods, representing a crucial step towards the practical implementation of QKD.

Source: Optics Express

DOI: 10.1364/oe.560660