SECOQC Business White Paper

Abstract: In contemporary cryptographic systems, secret keys are usually exchanged by means of methods, which suffer from mathematical and technology inherent drawbacks. That could lead to unnoticed complete compromise of cryptographic systems, without a chance of control by its legitimate owners. Therefore a need for innovative solutions exists when truly and reliably secure transmission of secrets is required for dealing with critical data and applications. Quantum Cryptography (QC), in particular Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) can answer that need. The business white paper (BWP) summarizes how secret key establishment and distribution problems can be solved by quantum cryptography. It deals with several considerations related to how the quantum cryptography innovation could contribute to provide business effectiveness. It addresses advantages and also limitations of quantum cryptography, proposes a scenario case study, and invokes standardization related issues. In addition, it answers most frequently asked questions about quantum cryptography.