Deployment Strategies for the Global Coverage of Quantum Key DistributionNetwork

Abstract

We present a comprehensive literature review and comparative study on the deployment strategies
of quantum key distribution (QKD) networks for global coverage. The state-of-the-art deployment strategies, including terrestrial QKD via optical fibers, free-space QKD via ground-based fixed links and ground-to-air dynamic links, as well as satellite QKD, are reviewed and compared in terms of channel loss, interference, distance limit, connection topology, and deployment cost. Selection criteria and deployment strategies are developed to enable a global coverage of QKD networks from intercontinental, long-haul to metro, and access networks