A single-state semi-quantum key distribution protocol and its security proof

Wei Zhang, Daowen Qiu, Xiangfu Zou, Paulo Mateus

Published 2016-12-03Version 1

Semi-quantum key distribution (SQKD) can share secret keys by using less quantum resource than its fully quantum counterparts. It makes them become more practical and realizable. Recently, Zou et al have proposed a new SQKD protocol without invoking the classical party's measurement ability. It further decreases SQKD protocol's implementation complexity by removing the classical user's measurement equipment. In this paper, we design a new SQKD protocol, in which the classical user's measurement is not necessary either. Compared with Zou's protocol, the sender Alice just send one qubit to the classical Bob and Bob just prepares one state in the preparation process, which can reduce some quantum communication and make it easier to be implemented. Additionally, Bob's CTRL-bits can contribute to the raw key, which makes it with higher key rate to be more efficient. After that, we prove it with unconditional security by computing the lower bound of the key rate in the asymptotic scenario from information theory aspect. Then we can find a threshold value of errors such that all error rates less than this value, the secure key can be established between the legitimate users definitely.