Toshiba Research, BT and ADVA Test ‘Quantum Leap’ Encryption

Toshiba Research Europe, BT, ADVA Optical Networking and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the UK’s National Measurement Institute, have tested Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology over a live fibre network.

BT said the idea behind the trial is to leverage the principles of quantum mechanics in transmitting encryption key information. Any attempt to intercept the key can be identified, as it introduces anomalies which can be detected. If this occurs, the ‘transaction’ can be aborted, and a new key sent automatically. By sending multiple quantum keys every second, the security of a fibre line can be constantly monitored and attempts to ‘tap’ the signal can be instantly identified.

The test was conducted using quantum equipment developed by Toshiba, measured and evaluated by the Quantum Detection Group at NPL, and running in conjunction with ADVA Optical Networking’s encryption equipment over a live BT fibre link between Adastral Park, BT’s technology research campus in Suffolk, and another BT site in Ipswich.

"The first field trial of QKD on lit fibre marks an importance advance for the technology. Using techniques to filter out noise from the very weak quantum signals, we’ve shown that QKD can be operated on optical fibres installed in the ground and carrying conventional data signals," stated Andrew Shields from Toshiba Research Europe in Cambridge.

This means QKD can be implemented without the need for additional ‘dark fibre’ that is often unavailable or prohibitively expensive.”

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