Quantum Key Management
Deploy quantum-secure networks with ease
The quantum age demands quantum-safe networking
Without it, even the most sensitive transmission could be decrypted by quantum computers within minutes. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is the technology that underpins quantum-safe networks. It uses the quantum properties of light to generate quantum-safe keys for encrypting and decrypting data.
Quantum-safe keys need quantum-specific key management
Cryptographic key management systems (KMSs) are the foundation of most online data security – responsible for routing and delivering the secure keys which secure encrypted data transmissions. Quantum key management systems are specifically designed to manage and route quantum-safe keys through QKD networks, enabling them to be shared reliably between parties.
Benefits of a Quantum Key Management System
Toshiba Q-KMS
Why choose Toshiba Q-KMS
Two decades of research, and unparalleled expertise.
We’ve been at the forefront of quantum cryptography since 1999. The head of our Quantum Technology Division, Dr Andrew Shields, led the ETSI group on quantum communications standards for seven years, which established the ETSI GS QKD 014 standard for QKD systems. We have been responsible for a series of world firsts in quantum technology and performance and we continue to push the boundaries of quantum technology.
QKD in detail
Background
The public key encryption techniques used today to secure much of our data online are no match for quantum computers. The dawn of the quantum age requires a new kind of security. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) involves the transmission of quantum-safe cryptographic keys using a technique which secures online transmissions, even against quantum computers.
Organisations will have to carefully manage the deployment of these quantum-safe keys throughout their QKD networks.
Toshiba’s Q-KMS makes the process simple.
What is a quantum key management system?
A Q-KMS is a cryptographic key management system for the quantum age. It operates in tandem with the QKD network, generating and distributing quantum-safe keys between trusted nodes – similar to TCP/IP, but for quantum transmissions.
The Q-KMS distributes and stores keys as required, allowing the operator to have high key refresh rates if they so wish.
How does Toshiba’s Q-KMS work?
Toshiba abstracts the Q-KMS from the physical layer, meaning we can provide a logical key delivery overlay across a network infrastructure.
While previous QKD systems have only operated point to point, the advent of Q-KMS means that QKD-secured mesh networking is now available. In a QKD network with a mesh architecture (as in the diagram below), the Toshiba Q-KMS can route around potential fibre breaks, increasing system resilience.
Do you need to use a Q-KMS with quantum key distribution systems?
Yes, if you’re using a QKD system in your network, you will need a quantum key management system to route and deliver the quantum-safe cryptographic keys. That’s why Toshiba provide a Q-KMS in addition to our QKD systems. Toshiba’s Q-KMS is compatible with quantum key distribution systems from other QKD vendors, or other applications (such as encryptors) that comply with the ETSI GS QKD 014 standard.
Is a quantum key management system the same as a key management system?
A Q-KMS is the quantum-safe equivalent of a standard cryptographic key management system (KMS), but designed specifically to store, distribute, and manage the keys required within a quantum-safe network.