Abstract: A method for generating a cryptographic key, wherein a first node transmits a first signal on a first channel to a relay, a second node transmits a second signal on a second channel to the relay, the first node receives a third signal from the relay on the first channel and a fourth signal derived at least from the first signal and from the second signal, the second node receives the third signal and the fourth signal from the relay on the second channel, the first node determines the key based on the first signal, on the third signal and on the fourth signal and the second node determines the key based on the second signal, on the third signal and on the fourth signal.

Abstract: A quantum random number generator is described as having a first single-photon detector that detects a first event, and a second single-photon detector that detects a second event, and as having an electronic circuit by way of which the first single-photon detector and the second single-photon detector are interconnected in such a way that after detection of the first event the latter is outputted and an output of a detected second event is suppressed.

Abstract: A method for generating a cryptographic key, wherein a first node transmits a first signal on a first channel to a relay, a second node transmits a second signal on a second channel to the relay, the first node receives a third signal from the relay on the first channel and a fourth signal derived at least from the first signal and from the second signal, the second node receives the third signal and the fourth signal from the relay on the second channel, the first node determines the key based on the first signal, on the third signal and on the fourth signal and the second node determines the key based on the second signal, on the third signal and on the fourth signal.