"Quantum Communication Research Network Launched"

It is essential to continue efforts to improve the security of information exchange as digitalization grows. A communication network based on the laws of physics is one of the main methods proposed to ensure undetected eavesdropping is made impossible. The joint project QuantumRepeater.Link (QR.X) aims to develop such as system. Quantum computers are expected to render current encryption algorithms obsolete. Therefore, today's encrypted data could be exposed by attackers using quantum computers, thus posing a major threat to the security and privacy of sensitive data. If a quantum computer is specifically programmed for code-breaking, it could easily eavesdrop on traditional computers using standard protocols, but if encryption keys are exchanged in the form of photons (i.e., particles of light), the laws of physics guarantee that any hacking attempt would be discovered. Christoph Becher, Professor of Experimental Physics and head of the Quantum Optics Group at Saarland University, stressed the importance of ensuring that quantum communication operates reliably over long-distance fiber-optic networks covering large areas if it were to become a viable technology in the future. Becher is coordinating an association of over 40 partners from the science and industry fields on developing quantum repeaters and integrating them into existing fiber-optic networks, which is considered one of the biggest technological challenges. Quantum communication is currently restricted to distances of a few hundred kilometers due to unavoidable link limitations. It is impossible to overcome these limitations using signal amplification, as is the case with conventional optical fiber communication methods. Instead, quantum repeaters will break down information into smaller linked pieces using quantum processes in order to enable communication over longer distances. The QuantumRepeater.Link network is based on the Q.Link.X project, in which researchers successfully produced essential basic components of quantum repeaters. In the new project, these components will be optimized and integrated into fiber optic test networks outside protected lab environments. The goal is to demonstrate that an elementary quantum repeater system can function successfully over distances of up to 100 kilometers. This article continues to discuss the goals of the new quantum communication research network.

SCIENMAG reports "Quantum Communication Research Network Launched"