The new quantum technology-based communications system could improve security for the tens of thousands of ocean-going ships that visit the Port of Rotterdam each year, making the resulting economic traffic safer against the threat of quantum computers, Innovation Quarterly reported in a press release.
As part of the Quantum Delta NL program, a consortium of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Q*Bird, Single Quantum, Cisco, Eurofiber, Portbase, Intermax and InnovationQuarter has become the first company in the world to build a scalable quantum network connection in the Port of Rotterdam.
Distributing quantum keys
During the trial period, which began at the end of 2022, Q*Bird installed a central hub for its quantum network in Eurofiber's data center. The hub is connected to two endpoints: Portbase and Havenbedrijf Rotterdam. The endpoints exchanged data protected by quantum keys during the trial period. Key generation and distribution takes place within the quantum network, and Q*Bird uses a “multipoint-to-multipoint configuration” for the endpoints. New endpoints can then be connected to the central hub, each of which can generate quantum keys. The system can also protect other critical infrastructure networks in the Netherlands. Due to the success of the trial, new endpoints of several maritime service providers in customs and ports are expected to be connected to the central hub during this year.
Preparing for the future
The setup built during the trials allows multiple end users to enjoy a secure, eavesdrop-proof connection. The strength of this setup is that it can be easily scaled to more users, and the cost of scaling is relatively low. Once connected, the parties can be sure that the communication line has not been tampered with. If a hacker tries to steal the key, the laws of quantum mechanics will notify the user as soon as the key falls into the wrong hands. Another set of keys can then be created, allowing for an even more secure exchange of messages.
Rapid development of quantum communication
Cybersecurity is currently ensured by data encryption, which is based on calculations that are almost impossible to decrypt with today's computers. However, powerful quantum computers could crack the algorithms and expose sensitive data. Due to the unprecedented computing power of computers, there is a risk that encrypted information could be decrypted in the blink of an eye, giving malicious actors access to national and trade secrets. Also, data that is currently intercepted and stored could later be decrypted by a quantum computer.
Quantum technology is developing at an incredible speed, and quantum computers are coming sooner than expected. Quantum technology has unprecedented potential to solve complex problems, but it also poses serious threats. For companies with critical infrastructure, such as port authorities, this poses a serious threat of operational interruption, which could result in significant economic and physical damage. Improving cyber resilience is therefore more important than ever.
