Eurofiber to integrate Quantum Key Distribution into its own infrastructure.
During Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Eurofiber and Q*Bird announced a mutual collaboration. The aim of this collaboration is to better protect data passing over the fiber-optic connections Eurofiber offers. This is possible thanks to Quantum Key Distribution.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
QKD is a cryptographic protocol that uses some components of quantum mechanics. In this way, it can guarantee that data sent over a fiber-optic line by this method arrives at the other end without being intercepted along the way. This is because, according to the principles of quantum mechanics, it is not possible to look at something without changing it. So if a fiber optic cable is bent and light escapes, it is immediately obvious because it is clear on the other side, thanks to the QKD protocol, that the flow of information did not pass safely.
By adding this technology to its own infrastructure, Eurofiber is taking the next step in network security. The technology was developed by Q*Bird, a spinout of Delft University of Technology/QuTech. The two sides know each other well, by the way. The news of today is more a formalization of the partnership, as far as we can see. In the episode below of our podcast series Techzine Talks, we discuss in detail what QKD entails. We do this with people from Q*Bird and Eurofiber. We also discuss what this means for Eurofiber’s infrastructure.
Eurofiber and Q*Bird responses to cooperation
Below, for completeness, we include in full the comments of the Managing Directors of Eurofiber and Q*Bird:
Ingrid Romijn, CEO Q*Bird: “The signing of this agreement with Eurofiber is an important milestone in our collaboration. Working together with Eurofiber will further launch our QKD product to the market. Combining our integrated technologies creates a unique value proposition, allowing Q*Bird and Eurofiber to offer a scalable and affordable solution to protect data communications. We are thrilled to partner with Eurofiber and look forward to joining forces to deliver the very best to our clients.”
Paul Naastepad, Managing Director Eurofiber Netherlands: “The partnership with Q*Bird reflects how committed we are to delivering best-in-class data security solutions and maintaining our role as a trusted partner for companies and organizations looking for reliable connectivity and unparalleled security.”