Quantum key distribution in terms of the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger state: Multi-key generation

Abstract

In this paper, we develop, a quantum key distribution protocol based on the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger states (GHZs). The particles are exchanged among the users in blocks through two steps. In this protocol, for three-particle GHZs three keys can be simultaneously generated. The advantage of this is that the users can select the most suitable key for communication. The protocol can be generalized to N users to provide N keys. The protocol has two levels for checking the eavesdroppers. Moreover, we discuss the security of the protocol against different attacks. © Pleiades Publishing, Ltd., 2010.