PQC-QKD hybridization in Orange’s fiber network

The ParisRegionQCI consortium, led by Orange has implemented its first quantum communication network in existing fiber optic infrastructure and we are honored to have contributed to this successful project.

In this demonstration, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) was implemented on the infrastructure backbone with relays secured by post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to cover an extended distance range in Orange’s fiber optic network. The installed solution combines IDQ’s commercial Cerberis XG QKD system with embedded Clarion KX software suite (Key Management System), CryptoNext’s Quantum Safe Library (C-QSL) and classical symmetric cryptography.

PQC is the next generation of public key cryptography designed to be resistant to quantum computer attacks. In this setup, QKD provides unbreakable key exchange between remote encryption systems, while PQC guarantees relays security in large scale QKD network deployment.

Exchange of Encryption keys Relay from Paris to Plateau de Saclay on the ParisRegionQCI backbone.
Source: ID Quantique

This demonstration underlines how a hybrid approach is meaningful for future large-scale multi-user networks, to provide an ultra-secure connection for governmental institutions and companies that need to manage sensitive data.

Read Orange’s news on Paris QCI project

Feel free to contact us to know more about the project deployment.