What are the applications of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?

What are the applications of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is primarily used for secure communication. Its applications include secure banking transactions, government communications, and protecting sensitive data in healthcare.

How does QKD ensure security in these applications?

QKD ensures security by using the principles of quantum mechanics. It allows two parties to generate a shared, secret random key, which is secure against eavesdropping due to the nature of quantum states.

Are there any real-world examples of QKD being used?

Yes, several organizations have implemented QKD. For instance, the Chinese satellite Micius has successfully demonstrated QKD over long distances, and banks in Europe are using it for secure transactions.

What are the limitations of QKD?

Some limitations of QKD include the need for specialized hardware, distance limitations due to signal loss, and the challenge of integrating it with existing communication infrastructure.