Quantum-safe networks:CV-QKD transceivers from CUbIQ in HPE switches and routers
More and more organisations are looking at the impact of quantum computers on cryptography. HPE and Cubiq present a PoC for network hardware.
(Image: alexskopje/Shutterstock.com)
- Benjamin Pfister
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) utilizes the laws of quantum physics to securely distribute keys to communication partners. Until now, however, QKD has required relatively large dedicated 19-inch hardware. A joint proof-of-concept from Coherent Corp, CUbIQ Technologies, HPE Networking, and Liberty Global now demonstrates a simplified and integrated approach using QKD technology directly in the transceiver.
Quantum computers threaten traditional encryption methods such as RSA or ECC. Quantum-safe solutions such as QKD are therefore becoming increasingly important. Based on the keys exchanged via QKD, quantum-secure encryption can subsequently be set up to ensure tap-resistant communication even in the age of quantum computing.
(Image:Â CUbIQ)
CUbIQ developed a CV-QKD (Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution) transceiver in a compact QSFP28 transceiver for the PoC. These can be plugged directly into HPE's Juniper switches and routers, such as the PTX series routers. This should enable quantum-safe MACsec encryption based on QKD key exchange without having to resort to a dedicated QKD solution in 19-inch format. The 400ZR transceivers from Coherent served as the basis.
The POC was presented this week at the European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC) 2025 in Copenhagen, among other events. However, nothing is yet known about market maturity.
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