Abstract: A method of encrypting information using an encryption pad based on keys exchanged between quantum key distribution (QKD) stations is disclosed. The method includes establishing raw keys between two stations using QKD, processing the keys to establish a plurality of matching privacy amplified keys at each station and buffering the keys in a shared key schedule. The method also includes the option of expanding one or more of the keys in the shared key schedule using a stream cipher to create a supply of expanded keys that serve as pads for one-time-pad encryption.

Abstract: An encryption system and method that utilizes quantum key distribution (QKD) and that is compliant with industry and/or governmental standards for encryption is disclosed. One example embodiment of the system includes first and second transmitters/receivers operatively connected to respective first and second encryption/decryption (e/d) processors. The e/d processors are connected to a classical key distribution system as well as to a QKD system. The QKD system symmetrically provides quantum keys qi to the e/d processors, and the classical encryption system symmetrically provides classical keys ci to the e/d processors. The e/d processors then form session keys ki via the operation ki=ci XOR qi. The session keys are then used to encrypt and decrypt plaintext messages sent between two transmitting/receiving stations.