Colt trials QKD security in live network via ADVA FSP 3000
ADVA (FSE: ADV) says it participated with Colt Technology Services on a field trial of quantum-based secure transport. The trial leveraged ADVA’s FSP 3000 platform with ConnectGuard Layer 1 encryption technology and quantum key distribution (QKD). ADVA quantum encryption partner ID Quantique also played a role, the company adds.
Colt implemented the QKD capabilities on its metro network in Frankfurt. The ADVA FSP 3000 used in the trial received quantum keys generated by ID Quantique’s QKD technology, which provided quantum random bit strings. The keys were used as an additional entropy source for the ADVA encrypted transmission at 100 Gbps. ADVA says its approach is the first commercial high-speed optical networking option that features a dedicated interface for quantum keys based on the ETSI key delivery standard.
“With quantum computers on the horizon, it’s crucial to stay one step ahead of the hackers. This trial is a major step towards the next generation of cryptographic infrastructure and takes us closer to safeguarding our customers’ information from tomorrow’s threats,” commented Oktay Tekin, director, sales engineers, DACH, Colt Technology Services. “Businesses across the world depend on the speed, reliability, and robust security of our services to operate effectively and with complete peace of mind. By conducting this trial with ADVA to harness QKD technologies, we’re exploring how to protect against unprecedented challenges further down the line.”
“Colt’s trial shows that it’s now possible to secure high-speed connectivity over deployed operational networks against tomorrow’s quantum computer attacks,” added Uli Schlegel, director, product line management, ADVA. “It’s a significant milestone for Colt’s enterprise customers. From sensitive financial information to valuable intellectual property, their data will soon be shielded from the cybercriminals of the future.”
ADVA has participated in other trials of QKD and related quantum security technology, including with BT (see “Quantum encryption combats threat posed by quantum computing hacks”).
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Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher, Lightwave
Stephen Hardy is editorial director and associate publisher of Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, part of the Lighting & Technology Group at Endeavor Business Media. Stephen is responsible for establishing and executing editorial strategy across the both brands’ websites, email newsletters, events, and other information products. He has covered the fiber-optics space for more than 20 years, and communications and technology for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Lightwave has received awards from Folio: and the American Society of Business Press Editors (ASBPE) for editorial excellence. Prior to joining Lightwave in 1997, Stephen worked for Telecommunications magazine and the Journal of Electronic Defense.
Stephen has moderated panels at numerous events, including the Optica Executive Forum, ECOC, and SCTE Cable-Tec Expo. He also is program director for the Lightwave Innovation Reviews and the Diamond Technology Reviews.
He has written numerous articles in all aspects of optical communications and fiber-optic networks, including fiber to the home (FTTH), PON, optical components, DWDM, fiber cables, packet optical transport, optical transceivers, lasers, fiber optic testing, and more.
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