Communication Control Device Key Management for Quantum Cryptography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently switching keys for low-delay communication, particularly when using encryption methods like one time pad (OTP) in quantum cryptographic communication.
Innovation Solution
A communication control device with an acquisition unit, a processing unit, a request unit, and a memory unit is implemented to acquire, process, and manage key data for each flow, enabling smooth key transfer and encryption/decryption processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If key switching mechanism is implemented in communication control device, then communication delay is reduced, but key management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments key management by flow ID, creating separate key storage areas and management structures for each flow. This allows independent key switching per flow without affecting other flows, reducing overall system complexity while enabling low-delay communication through efficient key retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary key preparation by storing multiple keys in advance for each flow in the key storage unit. When a key needs to be switched, the new key is already prepared and available, eliminating key generation delays and enabling smooth transitions without communication interruption.
2Reliability
If one time pad encryption is used, then communication security is improved, but key switching frequency must increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal key management structure that handles multiple flows simultaneously through a standardized interface. The key storage unit, key switching unit, and key provision unit work together in a unified manner for all flows, reducing the overall key switching burden while maintaining OTP security requirements for each individual flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a key management unit as an intermediary between the encryption/decryption units and the key storage. This mediator efficiently manages key retrieval and switching, reducing the direct burden on communication flows while ensuring each flow receives appropriate keys for OTP encryption, thereby maintaining security without excessive switching frequency.
3Speed
If key data is transferred via internal bus, then transfer speed is improved, but bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local key storage units at or near the communication control device, allowing keys to be stored and switched locally without requiring continuous high-speed bus transfers. This reduces bandwidth consumption on internal buses while maintaining fast key availability through local access, resolving the contradiction between transfer speed and bandwidth usage.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a communication control device included in a first communication device is provided. The communication control device includes an acquisition unit, a first processing unit, a request unit and a first memory unit. The acquisition unit acquires data transmitted from the first communication device to a second communication device or data transmitted from the second communication device to the first communication device. The first processing unit performs an encryption process or a decryption process on the data by using key data in a case where the data belongs to a flow. The request unit requests transfer of key data for each flow via an internal bus. The first memory unit stores the key data transferred in response to the request.