Quantum Key Distribution Protocols: A Review of Security Enhancements
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Abstract
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) has emerged as a revolutionary technology for secure communication, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to ensure the inviolability of cryptographic keys. Conventional QKD protocols often rely on centralized systems, which present challenges related to scalability, trust, and single points of failure. This review explores the security enhancements introduced by adopting a decentralized approach to QKD protocols. We analyze various decentralized QKD frameworks that eliminate the need for trusted third parties, leveraging blockchain technology and other distributed systems to enhance security, transparency, and robustness. In addition to assessing their performance, we examine how these decentralized models mitigate vulnerabilities such as key interception, node compromise, and denial-of-service attacks, which are prevalent in traditional centralized systems. Our review highlights advancements in the integration of decentralized QKD with classical cryptographic techniques, offering a comprehensive view of its potential to revolutionize secure communications in critical sectors. The decentralized approach to QKD represents a promising evolution towards more secure, scalable, and resilient quantum cryptography systems.