Quantum key distribution-exchanging a random secret key relying on a quantum mechanical resource-is the core feature of secure quantum networks. Entanglement-based protocols offer additional layers of security and scale favorably with quantum repeaters, but the stringent requirements set on the photon source have made their use situational so far. Semiconductor-based quantum emitters are a promising solution in this scenario, ensuring on-demand generation of near-unity-fidelity entangled photons with record-low multiphoton emission, the latter feature countering some of the best eavesdropping attacks. Here, we use a coherently driven quantum dot to experimentally demonstrate a modified Ekert quantum key distribution protocol with two quantum channel approaches: both a 250-m-long single-mode fiber and in free space, connecting two buildings within the campus of Sapienza University in Rome. Our field study highlights that quantum-dot entangled photon sources are ready to go beyond laboratory experiments, thus opening the way to real-life quantum communication.
Quantum key distribution with entangled photons generated on demand by a quantum dot / Basso Basset, F.; Valeri, M.; Roccia, E.; Muredda, V.; Poderini, D.; Neuwirth, J.; Spagnolo, N.; Rota, M. B.; Carvacho Vera, G.; Sciarrino, F.; Trotta, R.. - In: SCIENCE ADVANCES. - ISSN 2375-2548. - 7:12(2021). [10.1126/sciadv.abe6379]
Quantum key distribution with entangled photons generated on demand by a quantum dot
Basso Basset F.;Valeri M.;Roccia E.;Poderini D.;Neuwirth J.;Spagnolo N.;Rota M. B.;Carvacho Vera G.;Sciarrino F.;Trotta R.
2021
Abstract
Quantum key distribution-exchanging a random secret key relying on a quantum mechanical resource-is the core feature of secure quantum networks. Entanglement-based protocols offer additional layers of security and scale favorably with quantum repeaters, but the stringent requirements set on the photon source have made their use situational so far. Semiconductor-based quantum emitters are a promising solution in this scenario, ensuring on-demand generation of near-unity-fidelity entangled photons with record-low multiphoton emission, the latter feature countering some of the best eavesdropping attacks. Here, we use a coherently driven quantum dot to experimentally demonstrate a modified Ekert quantum key distribution protocol with two quantum channel approaches: both a 250-m-long single-mode fiber and in free space, connecting two buildings within the campus of Sapienza University in Rome. Our field study highlights that quantum-dot entangled photon sources are ready to go beyond laboratory experiments, thus opening the way to real-life quantum communication.File | Dimensione | Formato | |
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