Long-range photonic device-independent quantum key distribution using SPDC sources and linear optics

Abstract

We address the question of the implementation of long-distance device-independent quantum key distribution (DI QKD) by proposing two experimentally viable schemes. Those schemes only use spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC) sources and linear optics. They achieve favorable key rate scaling proportional to the square root of channel transmittance $\eta_t$, matching the twin-field protocol advantage. We demonstrate positive asymptotic key rates at detector efficiencies as low as 80\%, bringing DI QKD within the reach of current superconducting detector technology. Our security analysis employs the Entropy Accumulation Theorem to establish rigorous finite-size bounds, achieving finite-key rates at a detector efficiency of 90\%. This work represents a critical milestone toward device-independent security in quantum communication networks, providing experimentalists with practical implementation pathways while maintaining the strongest possible security guarantees against quantum adversaries.