This is the home page of the Integrated Project SECOQC, Sixth Framework Programme, of the EC (duration 1.4.2004 - 10.10.2008).
08.10.2008
QKD Network Demonstration and conference
The first live demonstration of a working quantum key distribution (QKD) network took place in Vienna on Oct 6, 2008 in the framework of the SECOQC Demonstration and International Conference. Eight QKD-links were combined in a novel quantum-back-bone network physically deployed within a typical metropolitan area network to connect different company sites from SIEMENS Austria. Typical applications for QKD, to secure data traffic from telephony and video conferencing, were included in the demonstration.
proceed to conference page ››
03.10.2008:
SECOQC Business Whitepaper Published
The SECOQC Business Whiteaper summarizes how secret key establishment and
distribution problems can be solved by quantum cryptography. It deals with several
considerations related to how the quantum cryptography innovation can contribute
to provide business effectiveness. It addresses advantages and also limitations of
quantum cryptography, proposes a scenario case study, and invokes standardization
related issues. In addition, it answers most frequently asked questions about quantum
cryptography.
Read the SECOQC Business Whitepaper ›› (pdf, 130kB)
29.7.2008:
ETSI Industry Specificaton Group launched
As per today the European Telecommunications Standards Institute ETSI has founded the Industry Specification Group on Quantum Key Distribution and Quantum Technologies (QISG). The group is aimed at successfully transferring quantum cryptography out of the controlled and trusted environment of experimental laboratories into the real world where business requirements, malevolent attackers, and social and legal norms have to be respected.
more ››
Publication of Quantum Backbone Link Interface
The participants of the European Integrated Project SECOQC of the 6th framework programme, represented by the co-ordinator Austrian Research Centers GmbH - ARC, are proud to announce the publication of the Quantum-Back-Bone Link-Interface QBB-LI. By this interface quantum cryptographic links can be inserted into the SECOQC Quantum Back Bone secrets distribution network.
Published is the complete interface documentation, as well as a software package including a network node simulator and a sample quantum device.
more ››
Outline of the SECOQC Quantum-Key-Distribution Network in Vienna
Andreas Poppe, Momtchil Peev, Oliver Maurhart
Abstract: A Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network is currently implemented in Vienna by integrating seven QKD-Link devices that connect five subsidiaries of SIEMENS Austria. We give an architectural overview of the network and present the enabling QKD-technologies, as well as the novel QKD network protocols.
Journal reference: International Journal of Quantum Information IJQI
, Volume 6, 209-218 (April 2008)
Preprint available from arxiv.org
SECOQC White Paper on Quantum Key Distribution and Cryptography
The White Paper is the outcome on a thorough consultation and discussion among the participants of the European project SECOQC.
This paper is a review article that attempts to position Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in terms of cryptographic
applications. A detailed comparison of QKD with the solutions currently in use to solve the key distribution
problem, based on classical cryptography, is provided. We also detail how the work on QKD networks lead within
SECOQC will allow the deployment of long-distance secure communication infrastructures based on quantum cryptography.
The purpose of the White Paper is finally to promote closer collaboration between classical and quantum cryptographers.
We believe that very fruitful research, involving both communities, could emerge in the future years and try to sketch
what may be the next challenges in this direction.
Read the White Paper ›› (pdf, ~500kB)