14 May 2024 -- Quantum security startup Q*Bird has begun a partnership with the Port of Rotterdam, to upgrade its communications at a time when the security of critical infrastructure is a high priority around the world. Staying ahead of emerging security threats is critical for Europe’s largest port.

The trial involves Netherlands-based Q*Bird’s Falqon® technology being implemented to protect the port’s digital infrastructure, as well as its communications with third parties such as customs authorities and logistics service providers that use the port. Q*Bird will bring its Falqon® technology to general availability on the market in the coming months.

The port’s communications are already cryptographically secured. But the increasing sophistication of hackers, not to mention the growing geopolitical tensions in the world, make increased security a sensible precaution to protect critical infrastructure such as ports.

Q*Bird provides technology for quantum secure networking. Just as emerging quantum computers or unexpected advancements in classical algorithms could eventually pose a threat to the security of today’s strong cryptography, quantum technologies can also provide a solution by offering far stronger security.

“We’re using a novel approach by enabling many different users to connect to the same central switch station. This will allow a large number of users to exchange highly secured information,” Q*Bird co-founder and CEO, Ingrid Romijn says of the trial.

The trial is a partnership between the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Q*Bird, Portbase, Single Quantum, Cisco, Eurofiber, Intermax and InnovationQuarter. At MWC24 in February, Q*Bird and Eurofiber, a provider of industry-leading open digital infrastructure, announced a partnership to offer the highest standard of network security thanks to quantum technology.