Quantum-Secure Key Distribution via High Altitude Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current encryption methods used in communication networks, especially in mobile networks like 6G, may not be secure against future quantum computer attacks, and quantum cryptography is challenging to implement due to the difficulty in distributing quantum states over mobile networks.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing high-entropy random numbers generated by a High Altitude Platform (HAP) or satellite, distributed via a mobile radio network, to create quantum-secure keys for encryption, which can be used with classical or post-quantum cryptographic methods, ensuring secure communication by decentralizing the generation of user keys using a shared secret and Key Derivation Function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If quantum cryptography is used to secure communication networks, then security against quantum computer attacks is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to the difficulty in distributing quantum states over mobile networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of quantum state distribution with an information-theoretic system based on high-entropy random number distribution. Instead of transmitting fragile quantum states through communication channels, the system distributes classical random numbers that can be used by receivers to generate secure keys locally, eliminating the need for complex quantum state transmission infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces high-entropy random numbers as an intermediary between the key generation source and the final encryption keys. These random numbers serve as a mediator that can be distributed through classical channels while still enabling the generation of quantum-secure keys at the receiving end, bridging the gap between classical communication infrastructure and quantum-security requirements
2Reliability
If quantum cryptography is implemented in mobile networks, then security is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to challenges in distributing quantum states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the operationally difficult quantum state distribution mechanism with a classical random number distribution system. Receivers can easily obtain high-entropy random numbers through classical communication channels and independently generate secure keys without requiring specialized quantum reception equipment or complex quantum channel management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables each receiver to independently generate its own secure keys using locally processed high-entropy random numbers. This self-service approach eliminates the need for centralized key distribution management and allows each node to autonomously establish secure communications, significantly improving ease of operation in mobile network environments
3Ease of operation
If current encryption methods are used in communication networks, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability worsens due to vulnerability to quantum computer attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of key material from traditionally generated pseudorandom numbers to high-entropy random numbers with proven quantum-security properties. This parameter change maintains compatibility with existing encryption algorithms and communication protocols while providing resistance against quantum computer attacks, thus preserving ease of operation while improving reliability
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a solution for using quantum-safe communication in a suitably configured communication network (1) using high-entropy random numbers distributed within the communication network (1). The random numbers are generated by an entropy source (31; 32; 3n) that provides at least one random number source and an identifier uniquely identifying each of these random numbers. At least one height platform (HAP) (21; 22; 2n) of a mobile communication network forming or encompassing the communication network (1) is included in the distribution of the random numbers and their identifiers to network elements (41; 42; 4n), namely network devices or terminal devices, of the communication network (1).At least some of the network elements (41; 42; 4n) receive a random number or at least one of several random numbers together with their respective identifiers via a HAP (21; 22; 2n) distributing such random numbers and a mobile communication connection. According to one aspect, the invention relates to the generation of keys which serve as payload keys for quantum-safe encryption of data at the application level and/or for quantum-safe network communication.