Scalable ETSI-Compliant SDN-Enabled QKD Network Architecture Using Microservices

Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/ReportConference contributionContributedpeer-review

Abstract

6G networks promise advanced applications such as immersive extended reality, autonomous systems, and massive machine-type communications, all of which demand highly secure communication. Yet, the rise of quantum computing technologies poses significant challenges to classical cryptographic methods, creating an urgent need for security designs resistant to quantum attacks. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a promising solution; however, its deployment is currently constrained by expensive point-to-point connections that require dedicated devices at both endpoints. These constraints, combined with a restricted operational range, have limited the use of QKD to niche applications. To address this, our study introduces a scalable microservice framework for SDN-enabled QKD networks, leveraging the SDN Controller and its support for diverse communication protocols, including REST APIs. Our findings demonstrate that integrating QKD within an SDN-enabled microservice architecture can enhance network performance and flexibility by improving scalability, reducing latency, and extending achievable secret key rates over longer distances.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2025 IEEE Future Networks World Forum
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Pages1-6
ISBN (electronic)979-8-3315-9193-9
ISBN (print)979-8-3315-9194-6
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - Jan 2026
Peer-reviewedYes

Publication series

SeriesIEEE Future Networks World Forum (FNWF)
ISSN2770-7660

Conference

Title2025 IEEE Future Networks World Forum
SubtitleBeyond Connectivity: 6g for a Sustainable and Intelligent Future
Abbreviated titleFNWF 2025
Duration10 - 12 November 2025
Website
LocationSheraton Grand Bengaluru Hotel & Convention Center
CityBangalore
CountryIndia

External IDs

ORCID /0000-0001-8469-9573/work/210352927

Keywords

Keywords

  • Docker Container, Microservice Orchestrator, Quantum Key Distribution, Software-Defined Networking