Secure distribution of a certified random quantum key using an entangled memory qubit

Abstract

Random generation and confidential distribution of cryptographic keys are fundamental building blocks of secure communication. Using quantum states in which the transmitted quantum bit is entangled with a stationary memory quantum bit allows the secure generation and distribution of keys to be based on fundamental properties of quantum mechanics. At the same time, the reach of secure communication networks can be enhanced, in particular, since this architecture would be compatible with quantum repeaters which are an integral part for scaling quantum networks. Here, we realize a true single-photon quantum key distribution protocol (BBM92 protocol) at a second-order temporal correlation of $ {g^{(2)}(0)=0.00(5)}$ involving an entangled memory qubit which enables us to produce a certified random secret key on both endpoints of the quantum communication channel. We certify the randomness of the key using the min-entropy of the atom-photon state arising from the violation of the CHSH version of the Bell inequality of $ 2.33(6)$.