Secure Communications with Quantum Random Digital Noise (QRDN) - PR97-023

Conventional algorithmic encryption for securing communications in optical WDM netwroks is not readily scalable to high data rates and is vulnerable to off-line cryptanalysis because the algorithm generates a pseudo-random key stream. We propose instead a new concept that avoids these limitations: it is a quantum random digital noise (QRDN) generator capable of generating the identical random bit stream at different geographical locations. In Phase I of this effort, we will design and demonstrate the generation of identical random key streams with two QRDN generators located 100m apart. The generators will consist of matched unbalanced Mach-Zehnder fiber interferometers in open loop operation. As part of Phase I, a concept of operations (CONOPS) will be developed to establish the range of applicability in various optical networks under consideration by the Defense and Telco communities; and a vulnerability analysis will be carried out for various types of attack.