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Quantum Key Distribution

BB84 Protocol - Provably Secure Key Exchange

Rectilinear basis (+)
Diagonal basis (×)
🔵 Bit 0
🔴 Bit 1

👩 Alice (Sender)

Random Bits:
Bases Used:
Polarizations Sent:
💫
Quantum
Channel

👨 Bob (Receiver)

Bases Used:
Measurements:
Basis Match:

BB84 Quantum Key Distribution

Click "Start New Exchange" to begin the protocol simulation

How BB84 Works

1. Quantum Transmission: Alice sends photons polarized according to random bits and bases.

2. Random Measurement: Bob measures with randomly chosen bases (correct basis = correct bit).

3. Basis Reconciliation: Alice and Bob publicly compare bases (not bits!) and keep only matching ones.

4. Eavesdropper Detection: Any interception disturbs quantum states, introducing detectable errors.

The security is guaranteed by quantum mechanics - measurement disturbs the state!