Technology

How quantum technology will help communications security

How quantum technology will help communications security

The essence of quantum technology lies in qubits, unlike traditional bits, quantum information units can exist in multiple states simultaneously. Known as superposition, this capability allows photons to encode and transport information in ways that defy the limits of classical physics.

So far, fiber optics is the most advanced means for qubits to perform transmission, known as quantum channels. Quantum communications have conquered air and space, scientists have conducted tests between buildings, from ground stations to low-orbiting satellites, and quantum networks are now being explored under the sea.

In quantum networks, information not only travels faster, but also with a very high level of security. To date, there are several channels that are changing communication, among them are 3:

  • Private networks: They are exclusive, fast, very secure, and built from scratch, designed only for quantum messages to travel without interference.
  • Shared networks: Applicable to fiber optic networks already installed, this option does not require a large amount of investment, quantum messages can coexist with normal data circulating on the Internet.
  • Adaptive networks: These are the most sophisticated and are also known as software-defined networks and can change their shape and direction as needed. Whether for video messages, prioritizing secret, and confidential messages, with just a few clicks on a computer.

Quantum technology protects the information sent regardless of the origin, whether it is an email or a message from an app. Thanks to quantum entanglement, i.e. photons can intertwine regardless of the distance that separates them, when it comes to alter this entanglement, the photons that are part of the entanglement are broken and the intrusion is detected in real time and measures are taken to protect the information.

In addition, in quantum technology we find another property known as the non-cloning theorem, making it impossible to create an identical copy of an unknown qubit, preventing a third party from copying a message to be read later. The laws of quantum physics do not allow this, which could be called an invisible, invincible shield that also detects any threat.

Finally, the jewel in the crown is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), a protocol that allows the creation of secret symmetric keys between two parties, ensuring that any attempt at espionage is immediately detected. This technology is already commercially available and is being implemented in fiber optic networks and communication systems worldwide.

The real-life implementation is in its initial stages, but there are cases that are already standing out from others, such as the case of China's quantum communications network dedicated to protecting government and financial communications, with an extension of more than 2000 km connecting Beijing and Shanghai and applying Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). The Micius satellite is part of and has been used to carry out the world's first quantum secure videoconference, as well as to distribute quantum keys over intercontinental distances.

On the other hand, the Madrid Network is a project based on a shared quantum communication infrastructure and is software-defined, which makes it flexible and adaptable. Used to research and develop new applications of quantum cryptography in an urban environment.

Other industries have applied quantum technology, such as the Swiss bank UBS, which is testing quantum communications to secure the transmission of financial data. IBM and Google have also joined in and are investing in research and development of quantum technologies, including quantum communication. Regions such as Europe are partnering with each other to create the Quantum Communication Infrastructure (QCI) that will develop a Europe-wide quantum communications network.

For the time being, all these infrastructures are in the initial stages, it is still unknown when they will be available to everyone, what is certain is that communications are transforming and adapting to the needs of safeguarding the information and data handled in the digital era.

You can read more about the Madrid network at https://madqci.es/

26 de Diciembre, 2023



metodika