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Fast, efficient error reconciliation for quantum cryptography

W. T. Buttler, S. K. Lamoreaux, J. R. Torgerson, G. H. Nickel, C. H. Donahue, C. G. Peterson

quant-pharXiv:quant-ph/0203096

Abstract

We describe a new error reconciliation protocol Winnow based on the exchange of parity and Hamming's ``syndrome'' for N-bit subunits of a large data set. Winnow was developed in the context of quantum key distribution and offers significant advantages and net higher efficiency compared to other widely used protocols within the quantum cryptography community. A detailed mathematical analysis of Winnow is presented in the context of practical implementations of quantum key distribution; in particular, the information overhead required for secure implementation is one of the most important criteria in the evaluation of a particular error reconciliation protocol. The increase in efficiency for Winnow is due largely to the reduction in authenticated public communication required for its implementation.

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