Systematic Analysis of Quantum Key Distribution Network Simulations Tools and Platforms

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is one of the applications of quantum communications that is used to generate and distribute secret keys between two parties. These secrete keys are then used to establish secure communication. The security of QKD relies upon the principles of quantum mechanics, such as no-cloning theorem, that allow detection of any disturbances that quantum states could experience during transit. To facilitate these kinds of applications requires the development of quantum networks that consist of specialized hardware that is more complex than its classical counterpart. Hardware used in quantum networks is expensive, therefore it is very important to be confident in the design of network before physical implementation. This is why the development of quantum network simulation tools is of utmost importance. This research paper gives an overview and analysis of quantum network simulation tools and platforms that are capable of simulating quantum key distribution. Analysis will result in characteristics and capabilities of simulation tools and platforms that the researchers can use to choose the simulation tools most suitable for their scenario.