Abstract: A quantum key distribution (QKD) protocol adapter and method providing a first interface presenting a QKD protocol to a network element and a second interface arranged to use a key management protocol to communicate with a hardware security module (HSM). The adapter being arranged to use group shared keys provided to the HSM by a QKD system, and the adapter being arranged to respond to key status requests and key requests from the network element in the QKD protocol by interacting with the HSM using the key management protocol, and being arranged to provide the requested key status information or keys to the network element in the QKD protocol.