QKD-Secure ETSI MEC

Abstract

Edge computing is a leading trend in the deployment of computation and networking infrastructures, where processing is done closer to the users, compared to more traditional cloud-based solutions relying on remote data centers. On the other hand, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies, offering unconditional security between the communicating parties, is expected to become affordable in the near future and it will unlock new opportunities, e.g., for applications with long-term confidentiality requirements. In this paper we study how to enable ETSI ISG QKD key delivery within an ETSI MEC edge computing scenario, in the practical use case of cloud-native applications based on Function-as-a-Service (FaaS). This work is part of the activities of the PON project “Development of quantum systems and technologies for IT security in communication networks” (QUANCOM) which aims to the realization of a metropolitan quantum communication network through the collaboration between universities, research centers and companies operating in the communication market area.