Achieving Unconditional Security by Quantum Cryptography

Classical cryptography algorithms are based on mathematical functions. The robustness of a given cryptosystem is based essentially on the secrecy of its (private) key and the difficulty with which the inverse of its one-way function(s) can be calculated. Unfortunately, there is no mathematical proof that will establish whether it is not possible to find the inverse of a given one-way function. Since few years ago, the progress of quantum physics allowed mastering photons which can be used for informational ends and these technological progresses can also be applied to cryptography (quantum cryptography). Quantum cryptography or Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a method for sharing secret keys, whose security can be formally demonstrated. It aims at exploiting the laws of quantum physics in order to carry out a cryptographic task. Its legitimate users can detect eavesdropping, regardless of the technology which the spy may have. In this study, we present quantum cryptosystems as a tool to attain the unconditional security. We also describe the well known protocols used in the field of quantum cryptography.