Graph attention network-based resource assignment in quantum key distribution optical communication systems

The growing need for secure optical communications in the face of quantum computing threats demands advanced solutions for resource allocation in Quantum Key Distribution Optical Networks (QKD-ONs). This paper introduces a novel framework, termed Lightweight Block Encryption-based Multi-Aspect Graph Attention Network with Gorilla Troops Optimizer (LBEMAGAN-GTO), to address routing and resource assignment challenges in the quantum signal channel. The framework combines three core elements: an Ultra Lightweight Block Encryption Algorithm (ULBEA) for efficient and secure quantum key encryption, a Multi-Aspect Graph Attention Network (MAGANet) to enable intelligent routing and resource allocation, and the Gorilla Troops Optimizer (GTO) to dynamically minimize training loss. Simulation results on the UBN24 topology confirm the effectiveness of the approach, yielding a blocking probability of 0.02, throughput of 6.2 Gbit/s, and fast encryption/decryption times of 0.2s and 0.23s. Additionally, the model ensures high resource utilization and favorable QBER, outperforming state-of-the-art methods for quantum-secure optical networks.