AbstractQuantum key distribution is a practically implementable cryptographic communication methodology from the hardware and software point of view. It is an information‐theoretic secure method for transmitting keys to remote partners practicing quantum communication. After examining various protocols from the most basic on, BBM92, DPSK, SARG04 and MDI (Measurement Device Independent) protocols are described in view of targeting the longest possible communication distance with the highest secret key bitrate. How any protocol can be optimized with respect to distance is discussed by analyzing the various steps impacting hardware and software that are developed, starting from the underlying assumptions proper to every protocol and ending with the corresponding performance in each case.