pQKD – QKD emulators
pQKD is Quantum B’s practical answer to the challenge of deploying quantum-secure key distribution before full QKD infrastructure is economically or operationally justified. It functions as a QKD emulator, combining post-quantum cryptography, quantum randomness, QKD protocols and interoperability to provide a fast, cost-effective first step toward quantum-secure communications.
Why pQKD?
pQKD enables organizations to start the transition to quantum-safe key distribution earlier, with far less deployment friction than full QKD. It follows ETSI-aligned QKD protocols but avoids the need for dedicated fiber links by using an out-of-band channel secured with post-quantum cryptography, which makes deployment substantially easier in existing environments. At the same time, it integrates an authentic quantum entropy source and is designed to work seamlessly with network encryption devices and VPN-based systems that support ETSI QKD-style key exchange. The result is a practical bridge to quantum cryptography: earlier adoption, smoother integration, and strong compatibility with real-world infrastructures, while preserving a path toward full QKD where and when it becomes operationally justified.
How it works
pQKD uses a post-quantum-cryptography-secured out-of-band channel to distribute cryptographic keys while preserving the logic and interfaces of ETSI-aligned QKD protocols. It combines this with an authentic QRNG that operates independently of the QKD emulation function, providing a robust local source of quantum entropy for cryptographic applications. The system is designed to integrate with various network-layer encryption devices, VPN appliances, and other security systems that support ETSI-style QKD key exchange, allowing organizations to introduce quantum-resistant key distribution into existing environments without waiting for full physical QKD deployment.
Where it fits
pQKD is particularly well suited to environments that need stronger security now, without waiting for the broader availability or economics of full QKD infrastructure. This includes critical infrastructure, distributed industrial networks, robotics, and other operational environments where communications must remain resilient, quantum-safe, and practical to deploy across existing systems. It is especially valuable for organizations that cannot defer action and need an evolutionary path toward higher-assurance quantum cryptography starting today.
Why it matters
pQKD matters because it makes quantum-safe migration practical today while preserving a clear path toward full QKD tomorrow. Rather than forcing organizations to wait for ideal conditions, it enables a staged migration model in which quantum-resistant key distribution can be deployed early, integrated with existing environments, and later evolved into full QKD where higher assurance or dedicated quantum infrastructure is required. In this way, pQKD reduces delay, lowers transition risk, and turns quantum-security adoption into a manageable, step-by-step process rather than a disruptive leap.