arXiv:2408.15027 · International Conference on Quantum Communications, Networking, and Computing (QCNC)

European Quantum ecOsystems — Preparing the Industry for the Quantum Security and Communications Revolution

Noel Farrugia, Daniel Bonanno, Nicholas Frendo, André Xuereb, Evangelos A. Kosmatos, Alexandros Stavdas, Marco Russo, Bartolomeo Montrucchio, Marco Menchetti, Davide Bacco, Silvia Marigonda, Francesco Stocco, Guglielmo Morgari, Antonio Manzalini

Published Jul 1, 2024• 1 citation

arXiv HTML PDF

Abstract

There is mounting evidence that a second quantum revolution based on the technological capabilities to detect and manipulate single quantum particles (e.g., electrons, photons, ions, etc), a feat not achieved during the first quantum revolution, is progressing fast. It is expected that in less than 10 years, this second quantum revolution shall have a significant impact over numerous industries, including finance, medicine, energy, transportation, etc. Quantum computers threaten the status quo of cybersecurity, due to known quantum algorithms that can break asymmetric encryption, which is what gives us the ability to communicate securely using a public channel. Considering the world's dependence on digital communication through data exchange and processing, retaining the ability to communicate securely even once quantum computers come into play, cannot be stressed enough. Two solutions are available: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC); which, we emphasise, are not mutually exclusive. The EuroQCI initiative, of which EQUO is a part of, focuses on QKD and aims to build a network whereby EU countries can communicate securely through QKD. To this aim, the DEP (Digital Europe Programme) project aims to bring technological matureness to QKD by deploying a QKD test network and, through this exercise, understand what is lacking from an operator's point of view when the time to integrate QKD in their network comes.

DOI: 10.1109/qcnc62729.2024.00058

Related papers

The Rise of Quantum Information and Communication Technologies

Antonio Manzalini, Luigi Artusio

Today, we are already using several-component devices and systems based on the technologies developed during the first quantum revolution. Examples include microchips for servers, laptops and smartphones, medical imaging devices, LED, lasers, etc. Now, a second quantum revolution is progressing fast, exploiting technological advances for the ability to engineer and manipulate other quantum phenomena such as superposition, entanglement and measurement. As a matter of fact, there is an impressive increase in research and development activities, innovation, public and private investments in a new wave of quantum services and applications. In this scenario, quantum information and communication technologies (QICTs) can be defined as a set of technological components, devices, systems and methods for elaborating, storing and transmitting/sharing quantum information. This paper addresses the challenges and opportunities enabling the rise of QICTs. In order to provide a concrete example, the paper describes an overview of the European project EQUO (European Quantum ecOsystems) dealing with ongoing innovation activities in the QICT avenue; in fact, EQUO aims at developing and demonstrating the feasibility of QKD (quantum key distribution) networks and their related integration in current telecommunications infrastructures towards the quantum internet.

Quantum ReportsJan 11, 202411 citations

The quantum age begins: now, 5, 50, or 500 years? An operator perspective on quantum (secure) communication evolution in the next years

Zoe C. M. Davidson, Catherine White, Ali Sajjad +2 more

The quantum age heralds transformative advancements in secure communication. To protect against the looming threat of quantum computers to digital security, two complementary avenues are being explored: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC). QKD offers security by leveraging quantum mechanics to securely exchange cryptographic keys, while PQC shows potential robustness against quantum attacks by developing classical public key cryptographic algorithms. Entangled photon networks promise ultra-secure communication channels, and are hoped to eventually enable quantum networks that distribute quantum information between quantum processors, using quantum teleportation. Progress has been made in the last five years, and the risk of large scale cryptographically relevant quantum computers (CRQCs) within the next decade is significant. In response to this, we expect a phase of rapid adoption of technologies to protect the confidentiality and security of critical systems and communications, such as all-symmetric key based cryptography, QKD and PQC. In the medium term, these technologies will mature and be widely adopted. Longterm, entangled photon networks may revolutionize global communication, achieving unparalleled quantum computation, security and efficiency, and novel use-cases in quantum cryptography beyond QKD. Operators must navigate these evolving technologies to future-proof communication systems.

Next-Generation Optical Communication: Components, Sub-Systems, and SystemsMar 19, 20251 citation

A Peek into the Post-Quantum Era—PQA PQC

Abdullah Saad Alessa, Mohammad Ali A. Hammoudeh, Harbaksh Singh

Businesses are using post-quantum cryptography (PQC) technologies to safeguard digital data from the increasing computational capabilities of quantum machines. The rise of quantum-safe hybrid ecosystems is a notable shift in cryptographic methodology, merging the security benefits of quantum-resistant algorithms with conventional cryptographic approaches. Quantum computers will possess exceptional ability in handling complex simulations and optimization tasks by the year 2030. Industries such as finance, cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, and logistics are incorporating quantum computing into their operations. They are utilizing quantum algorithms to do complex risk assessments and facilitate data transmission. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and PQC is anticipated to significantly enhance the security and effectiveness of cryptographic systems. Adopting PQC into space communications is essential for ensuring global security and compatibility. Establishing common standards is vital to protect against potential threats and maintain worldwide security. Global collaboration is essential to create policies and ethical principles for PQC adoption and utilization. The ability of quantum computers to decipher encrypted communications raises privacy concerns. By 2030, quantum technologies are expected to make a deep impact on society and culture, leading to the development of a new cultural awareness and preparing humanity for the upcoming quantum revolution.

CRC Press eBooksJan 14, 20255 citations

Building Europe's Quantum Shield: The Strategic view for a Continent-Wide Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Infrastructure

Leandros A. Maglaras, Ilias Papastamatiou, Alexios Aivaliotis +2 more

The fast growth of quantum computing can lead to amazing scientific breakthroughs while on the same time can be used to break today's security systems, raising new risks for existing digital systems. Facing this challenge, the European's Union's deployement of the European Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) is crucial. The SEEWQCI project combines fiber cables, satellite communications and enhanced security rules to build a strong digital shield. Its focus is to protect vital services like power grids and hospitals keeping Europeans' data safe.

arXiv:2605.22332May 21, 20260 citations

Securing Digital Communications: Quantum and Post-Quantum Cryptography

Kiransairam Muntha, Adewale D. Ashogbon

As quantum computing advances toward practical use, classical cryptography is at a serious risk of being compromised, especially with the use of quantum algorithms like the Shor algorithm, which can break RSA in polynomial time, as well as Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC). This research paper highlights the urgent need to protect electronic communications against quantum attacks by leveraging two novel approaches: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, scalability, and integration possibility of these technologies separately and in mixed combinations, to achieve long-term resilient cybersecurity. This research is a mixed-methods study that combines literature analysis, expert surveys, and performance benchmarking to determine the strength of encryption, compatibility with the network, and feasibility in the real world. First-hand information was gathered through structured surveys among cybersecurity professionals and scholars. In contrast, second-hand information was retrieved from peer-reviewed journals and official standards of institutions, such as NIST. It has been found that QKD offers unparalleled information-theoretic security, founded on quantum mechanics, yet has limitations in terms of scale and cost. PQC algorithms, however, especially lattice-based cryptography, are simpler to integrate into a classical infrastructure but present a performance issue on hardware with limited capabilities. Based on the study, a hybridized cryptographic model appears to be the best solution to the current approach of implementing the secure key exchange properties of QKD and the universal properties of PQC, without compromising either.

Journal of Electrical and Computational InnovationsSep 15, 20250 citations

Post Quantum Cryptography: Readiness Challenges and the Approaching Storm

Matt Campagna, Brian A. LaMacchia, David E. Ott

While advances in quantum computing promise new opportunities for scientific advancement (e.g., material science and machine learning), many people are not aware that they also threaten the widely deployed cryptographic algorithms that are the foundation of today's digital security and privacy. From mobile communications to online banking to personal data privacy, literally billions of Internet users rely on cryptography every day to ensure that private communications and data stay private. Indeed, the emergence and growth of the public Internet and electronic commerce was arguably enabled by the invention of public-key cryptography. The key advantage offered by public-key cryptography is that it allows two parties who have never communicated previously to nevertheless establish a secure, private, communication channel over a non-private network (e.g., the Internet). Recent advances in quantum computing signal that we are on the cusp of our next cryptographic algorithm transition, and this transition to post-quantum cryptography will be more complicated and impact many more systems and stakeholders, than any of the prior migrations. This transition represents a major disruption within the IT industry and will broadly impact nearly every domain of our digital lives, from global commerce to social media to government and more. Cryptographic algorithm transitions take time and involve an extensive coordination effort across many stakeholders who are involved in building and operating the world's compute infrastructure. By preparing now for the upcoming transition to these new algorithms, we can ensure a more orderly, less costly, and minimally disruptive changeover.

arXiv:2101.01269Jan 4, 20217 citations