Work item:
Q.QKDN_GC
Subject/title:
General control protocols for interfaces on quantum key distribution network controller for quantum key distribution networks
Approval process:
AAP
Type of work item:
Recommendation
Version:
New
Equivalent number:
-
Timing:
2026-06 (Medium priority)
Liaison:
ITU-T Q16/13, ITU-T Q15/17, ETSI ISG-QKD, ETSI TC Cyber WG QSC, ISO/IEC JTC1-SC27
Supporting members:
NICT, NEC, Toshiba, ETRI, QuantumCTek Co., Jinan Institute of Quantum Technology
Summary:
Recommendation ITU-T Q.QKDN_GC specifies general control protocols at interfaces on a quantum key distribution network controller (QKDN controller) in quantum key distribution networks (QKDNs). Reference points on a QKDN controller are defined in [ITU-T Y.3802] which are Cq, Cqrp, Cops, Ck and Cx and in [ITU-T Y.3810] which is Cxi. A QKDN controller performs control functions through these interfaces to QKD modules, KMs, QKD links and other QKDN controller.
Signalling procedures, messages and parameters at Ck interfaces for key relay and Cq interfaces for key generation are specified in [ITU-T Q.4164] and [draft Q.QKDN_Cq]. This draft Recommendation describes protocols for general control functions which can be applied commonly to interfaces on the QKDN controller. These specifications are additional to [ITU-T Q.4164] and [draft Q.QKDN_Cq] and will not override them.
Comment:
-
Historic references: