What is quantum-resistant communications?

Robust network security is essential to protect sensitive data as it’s transported across networks. But even today’s most advanced encryption technology cannot offer security against quantum computers that may be a reality in the not-too-distant future. Today, information encrypted using asymmetric cryptography would be useless to any hacker, but there is still value in harvesting it. This is because, to a universal quantum computer, decrypting this data would be as simple as pushing at an open door. Though today’s quantum computers are still limited in their capabilities and cannot be used for such purposes, this may not be true for much longer. This is why organizations and governments across the world are looking into quantum-resistant cryptography to safeguard their information against tomorrow’s quantum-enabled attacks.

While symmetric encryption is broadly secure, the conventional asymmetric key exchange is highly vulnerable to quantum-enabled attacks. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is one technology that solves this problem. It uses quantum information (qubits) to let two parties exchange secure keys. Any attempt to tap these key exchanges distorts information carried by photons preventing a new key being generated. The other quantum-safe method of securing data involves the math-based approach of post-quantum key exchange algorithms. The appeal of post-quantum cryptography is that it’s easily deployable over long-haul and multi-operator links. This method can, of course, be used in combination with QKD providing an even higher level of protection.

At ADVA, we’re focused on developing security solutions that can protect data against all forms of cyberattack, including those from quantum computers. We are part of the OPENQKD project to help accelerate the commercial adoption of QKD technology across the world. Our open line system and both our optical and Ethernet ConnectGuard™ encryption solutions have been successful in testing with quantum-resistant algorithms. We’ve also been one of the first adopters of the new ETSI key delivery interface standard, which facilitates the use of QKD-based encryption keys on commercial hardware encryptors. Set to play a crucial role in the ever-evolving battle to guarantee data secrecy, our pioneering FSP 3000 and FSP 150 platforms are setting a new industry standard.