Quantum Cryptography for Networks Using Hollow Core Fibers
Industry-leading companies have teamed up to conduct a proof of concept of quantum cryptography systems also known as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in a real-world data center production network environment. The goal was clear: To secure a fiber-optic link from Digital Realty’s data center and, in turn, to demonstrate the compatibility of quantum cryptography with a new, very low-latency fiber-optic technology on one leg of the connection.
Currently, the transmission of information is predominantly protected by asymmetric encryption protocols based on mathematical algorithms such as number factorization problems. However, advancements in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing threaten the security of this cryptographic approach. In particular, it is estimated that, in the coming years, quantum computers will be able to break current cryptography based on mathematical problems with relative ease, putting the security of all digital communications of large companies at serious risk.
Two major quantum-safe cryptographic alternatives have been developed to address this security threat: Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). PQC is a software-based solution that employs complex mathematical algorithms to resist quantum computing attacks. However, since it relies on mathematical problems, there remains the possibility that future advancements could eventually solve these, potentially compromising its security.
lyntia, aware of the need for readiness and adoption of quantum-safe cryptographic security solutions, has driven this proof-of-concept by exploiting the second alternative: QKD. QKD allows the secure exchange and generation of cryptographic symmetric keys between two locations protecting them by the laws of quantum physics. This physical method does not rely on mathematical algorithms, offering a genuinely future-proof approach to information security that can be used alongside other cryptographic techniques to provide greater defense and resiliency.
In this test, two versions of QKD technology, from the two manufacturers LuxQuanta (CV-QKD) and ID Quantique (DV-QKD), along with a Quantum Key Management System (QKMS) from evolutionQ, were used to protect data center access connections. This is a breakthrough for companies in terms of security, introducing this new technology capable of providing cryptographic protection even against quantum computers.
The other major breakthrough of this test is the use of “hollow-core” fiber cable, manufactured by OFS| Furukawa Solutions, in the first connection with the data center. This innovative fiber was presented a few months ago in another real field test and allows light to travel almost 46% faster than conventional optical fibers, thus reducing transmission latency by more than 30%, which makes it particularly interesting for data centers.
Once the connection between the data center and the customer is secured with LuxQuanta’s CV-QKD systems using the hollow-core fiber, a second deployment of QKD systems, in this case from the manufacturer ID Quantique, is made via conventional fiber from lyntia to extend the reach of the connection by several tens of kilometers.
This ambitious collaboration culminates in the seamless integration of Nokia and evolutionQ systems, ensuring effective orchestration of the deployment. Nokia has provided high-capacity, low-latency, and highly available encryption systems utilizing quantum-secure keys to ensure in-flight data confidentiality, alongside its certified geo-redundant Security Management Server (SMS) systems.
By continuously monitoring the Quantum-Safe optical data center connectivity service, the SMS can automatically ensure quantum-computer-safe connectivity by reverting to classic physics-based keys in the event of DDoS attacks on the QKD layer or failures in both key generation and distribution. This results in a highly available Quantum-Safe optical data center connectivity service.
Equally crucial is evolutionQ’s role in the success of the project. Its key management system, known as BasejumpQDN, ensures efficient management of QKD keys between nodes and manages the delivery of these to Nokia’s encryptors at the right time.
In short, this test allows the daisy-chaining of two QKD systems to transmit quantum keys over a longer distance over a production network, allowing to reach longer distances of up to 200 kilometers with just one pair of devices. From now on, it will be possible to carry out this transmission to more datacenters as more equipment is installed.
A Proof of Concept Ahead of the Curve
This test is ahead of the curve, offering companies an excellent level of communications security that can be controlled by their own departments and preparing them to solve cyber-security problems for when quantum computing, AI, and ML can hack most of today’s encryption strategies.
lyntia is leading this initiative together with the other partners participating in this proof of concept. On the one hand, the manufacturers of QKD equipment, the companies LuxQuanta and ID Quantique, the company evolutionQ as QKD integrator, as well as Nokia, which is responsible for the manufacture of DWDM and OFS| Furukawa Solutions, manufacturer of the hollow-core fiber cable. Digital Realty also took part in the trial by providing the data center that hosted the launch event.
This project anticipates the growing threat facing the cybersecurity of digital communications, serving as an example and a call to action for multiple sectors, especially for data centers. The implementation of new cryptographic security solutions, such as QKD and related technologies, is already a reality.
About ID Quantique
ID Quantique (IDQ), founded in 2001, initially operated as a spin-off company of the University of Geneva, working on research projects to demonstrate the feasibility of quantum key distribution (or QKD, also known as quantum cryptography). In late 2003, IDQ developed the first QKD product for data centers to protect data in transit. 20 years later, IDQ released its 4th generation of quantum key distribution systems and remains the market leader in quantum safe cryptography and quantum sensing solutions. It maintains close ties with academic institutions by participating in numerous research programs and plays a leading role in cutting-edge projects to drive innovation to the market.
To request more information or a quotation for any ID Quantique products, contact IL Photonics.