Quantum Cryptography

Quantum cryptography, a branch of cryptography, employs the principles of quantum mechanics to safeguard communication. In contrast to classical cryptography, which hinges on mathematical complexity for security, quantum cryptography draws upon the foundational aspects of quantum mechanics, such as the uncertainty principle and the no-cloning theorem.

A fundamental concept in quantum cryptography is quantum key distribution (QKD), which enables two parties to securely create a shared secret key over a potentially vulnerable communication channel. This is accomplished by encoding the key into quantum states, typically using photons, and exchanging them between the parties. Any effort to intercept or eavesdrop on the communication will disrupt the quantum states, thus exposing the presence of an attacker.

The advent of quantum computers poses a significant challenge to the security of digital assets. Traditional cryptographic methods will be at risk once quantum computers become available, as their computing power can easily break classical encryption schemes. Classical cryptography cannot withstand the computational speed of quantum systems. Consequently, several solutions must be explored to protect existing systems. These include the development of quantum encryption and decryption algorithms, implementation of quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols, and deployment of quantum post-cryptography techniques. These measures are essential to ensure the continued security of digital assets in the face of advancing quantum technology.

While the research topic falls within the realm of quantum computing, emphasis is placed on exploring areas within the domain of quantum security. This encompasses a wide range of topics, including but not limited to quantum algorithms, post-quantum algorithms, techniques, designs, protocols, methods, and schemes aimed at bolstering the security of both quantum and classical systems.

Research contributions focusing on enhancing security across various aspects of quantum and classical computing are encouraged within this scope.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• ... View all formats

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Quantum Key Distribution, Teleportation, Error Correction, Post-Quantum Cryptography Algorithm, Entanglement, and Quantum-Safe Cryptography

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.