Path Computation Engine and Method of Configuring an Optical Path for Quantum Key Distribution

摘要

A path computation engine, PCE, (100) for an optical communications network comprising a plurality of nodes and a plurality of links. The PCE comprises a processor and memory comprising instructions executable by the processor whereby the PCE is operative to: receive a request to configure a quantum key, Qkey, path from a first node to a second node in the optical communications network for a quantum key distribution, QKD, signal for a quantum key for a secure data transmission signal; calculate a feasible Qkey path from the first node to the second node that is logically different to a traffic path from the first node to the second node for the secure data transmission signal, wherein the Qkey path is feasible if an optical signal power originating from the secure data transmission signal within the Qkey path, caused by optical interference of the secure data transmission signal with the QKD signal, is below a predetermined threshold value; and generate a control signal comprising instructions arranged to configure said feasible Qkey path.