Autocompensating two-photon quantum cryptography for optical fiber communication systems

Abstract

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a technique that provides perfect secrecy for communication systems, which is crucial against quantum computers capable of breaking current public-key cryptosystems. QKD is becoming a mature technology but it still suffers from implementation problems due to imperfections on real hardware that soften it’s security. To correct those is necessary to develop error mitigation mechanisms, as well as security by design through use of two-photon protocols. In this Thesis, we combine these two approaches in fiber-based QKD, particularizing for evolved fibers with improved data bandwidths. At the same time, we emphasize integration with quantum photonics, and carry out actual microfabrication of basic elements in the laboratory for future QKD applications.