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Understanding the Basics of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a cutting-edge technique in cryptography that leverages the
principles of quantum mechanics to enable secure communication. Unlike traditional encryption
methods, which rely on computational complexity, QKD ensures security through the fundamental
laws of physics.

At its core, QKD uses quantum bits, or qubits, typically represented by photons. These photons are
transmitted between two parties—commonly referred to as Alice and Bob—through a quantum
channel. The most widely known QKD protocol is BB84, developed in 1984 by Charles Bennett and
Gilles Brassard. In this protocol, photons are polarized in different bases, and any attempt by an
eavesdropper (Eve) to intercept the key alters the photon states due to the no-cloning theorem and
Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.

This inherent property of quantum systems means that any interception the fundamental laws of
physics.

At its core, QKD uses quantum bits, or qubits, typically represented by photons. These photons are
transmitted between two parties—commonly referred to as Alice and Bob—through a quantum
channel. The most widely known QKD protocol is BB84, developed in 1984 by Charles Bennett and
Gilles Brassard. In this protocol, photons are polarized in different bases, and any attempt by an
eavesdropper (Eve) to intercept the key alters the photon states due to the no-cloning theorem and
Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.

This inherent property of quantum systems means that any interception the fundamental laws of
physics.

At its core, QKD uses quantum bits, or qubits, typically represented by photons. These photons are
transmitted between two parties—commonly referred to as Alice and Bob—through a quantum
channel. The most widely known QKD protocol is BB84, developed in 1984 by Charles Bennett and
Gilles Brassard. In this protocol, photons are polarized in different bases, and any attempt by an
eavesdropper (Eve) to intercept the key alters the photon states due to the no-cloning theorem and
Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.

This inherent property of quantum systems means that any interception the fundamental laws of
physics.

At its core, QKD uses quantum bits, or qubits, typically represented by photons. These photons are
transmitted between two parties—commonly referred to as Alice and Bob—through a quantum
channel. The most widely known QKD protocol is BB84, developed in 1984 by Charles Bennett and
Gilles Brassard. In this protocol, photons are polarized in different bases, and any attempt by an
eavesdropper (Eve) to intercept the key alters the photon states due to the no-cloning theorem and
Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.

This inherent property of quantum systems means that any interception can be detected, allowing
Alice and Bob to discard compromised keys. Once a secure key is established, it can be used for
symmetric encryption algorithms like AES for data transmission.

Despite its promise, QKD faces challenges in scalability, distance limitations, and the need for
specialized hardware. However, with advancements in quantum repeaters and satellite-based QKD,
the technology holds potential for revolutionizing secure communications in the near future.

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