Summary

Recommendation ITU-T Q.4167 specifies general control protocols at interfaces on a quantum key distribution network (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 [ITU-T Q.4169]. This Recommendation describes protocols for general control functions which are commonly applied to interfaces on the QKDN controller. This Recommendation provides additional messages and parameters to those defined in [ITU-T Q.4164] and [ITU-T Q.4169] and does not override their provisions.