Scalable quantum network connections from Rotterdam to the world
A consortium consisting of the Port of Rotterdam, QBird, Single Quantum, Cisco, Eurofiber, Portbase, Intermax and InnovationQuarter was the first in the world to lay a scalable quantum network connection in Rotterdam. This was part of the Quantum Delta NL programme. In the test setup, the Port of Rotterdam and Portbase shared data with quantum keys through a centralized hub in Eurofiber’s data center. In doing so, the project marked an important I towardscommunications that cannot be intercepted without detection. “Blink and you will miss it. Quantum technology is happening before your very eyes and is developing really fast. And we are helping to build it,” says Ingrid Romijn, CEO and co-founder of QBird.
Infrastructure, hardware, and network software bundled in QUEST
From Theory to Networking: What Sets QUEST Apart?Quantum key distribution
During the test phase that started at the end of 2022, QBird installed a central hub to create a quantum network in Eurofiber’s data center. This central hub is connected to two end points at Portbase and the Port of Rotterdam. During the test phase the two end points exchanged data that was secured with quantum keys. Generating and sharing the keys is done through the quantum network for which QBird uses a unique multipoint-to-multipoint configuration for the end points. Many new end points can be connected in the central hub, each of which can generate quantum keys. Other quantum key distribution systems depend on less flexible peer-to-peer configuration. Q*Bird is the only entity in the world that offers this scalable system.
“Today we are creating appliances for quantum secured data communications. In the future we will make general quantum connectivity possible by delivering new products and seamlessly integrating them in our existing quantum cryptography network.”
How can you protect data from computers that are not there yet?
The Port of Rotterdam revolves around communications. Ships, terminals, logistics service providers, governments and digital platforms constantly exchange information. That data must be accurate, arrive safely and remain confidential. This is not only because of their related major economic interests, but also because any disruption in the communications of a port can have an immediate impact on physical safety.
It also changes the risk scenario. The digital security currently largely relies on encryption that is practically uncrackable for conventional computers. In the future, a powerful quantum computer will be able to solve certain frequently used cryptographic algorithms much more effectively.
The role of collaboration
The breakthrough cannot be put down to just one entity. The Port of Rotterdam shared the critical infrastructure use case. Portbase became the logical end point as the digital platform for port logistics. Q*Bird supplied the quantum technology. Single Quantum, Cisco, Eurofiber and Intermax supplied additional expertise and infrastructure. In an earlier phase, InnovationQuarter helped bring together companies, interest and opportunities in the region, in part through carrying out exploration activities that helped create the consortium.
This combination makes for a strong case. As long as it remains in a laboratory environment, quantum technology will be abstract. The technology in the Port of Rotterdam is linked to a clear economically relevant application: securing the communication between entities that depend on reliable data.
What is now possible
The successful trial laid an important technical foundation. It also opened up the prospect of connecting quantum-secure communication to more users and endpoints over time. The Quantum Communication Fieldlab Rotterdam builds on this by providing a place where organisations with critical infrastructure, such as ports, energy networks and government services, can test quantum-secure communication in practice before putting it into use.
Are you also looking for partners to bring your innovation to practice?
Q*Bird shows how working with the right entities helps make quantum secured communications applicable in critical infrastructure such as the Port of Rotterdam.
Are you also ready to move to quantum secured communication?
Ingrid Romijn of Q*Bird notes that many organizations still need to find the right connection. “What does this mean for my digital network? How can I join? We will help you in this. Our technology is ready for implementation and integration in digital networks.” The practical support enables organizations to join in, even if they have no quantum expertise.
Quantum networks and components for a future quantum internet are still under development around the world, both in academic and commercial laboratories. This project helps by making it possible to connect different quantum networks to each other so that all users can jointly create quantum connections.
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