Quantum-Inspired Cryptographic Key Exchange using Graph-Based Routing

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel cryptographic key exchange protocol leveraging concepts inspired by quantum mechanics, specifically superposition and probabilistic exploration, through a graph-based routing mechanism. Traditional key exchange protocols often rely on computationally intensive mathematical problems, making them vulnerable to advancements in computing power, including quantum computers. Our approach aims to mitigate this vulnerability by employing a graph structure to represent potential communication partners and utilizing a probabilistic routing algorithm that mimics the superposition principle. This allows for the simultaneous evaluation of multiple routing paths, dramatically increasing the computational complexity for an attacker while simultaneously reducing latency. The core of the system is a dynamically constructed graph where nodes represent potential key exchange partners and edges represent communication channels with associated security scores calculated probabilistically. The algorithm then iteratively explores this graph, utilizing a 'superposition' effect to consider multiple paths concurrently. The path with the highest security score is selected, ensuring robust key exchange. This method offers a potentially more resilient key exchange solution against both classical and future quantum attacks. The performance of this approach is evaluated through theoretical analysis and the design of a simplified prototype, demonstrating its potential for enhanced security and efficiency.