December 17, 2024 -- As quantum computing continues to develop in an arc towards practical realization, the potential threat to classical encryption systems also slopes upwards. In response, Eurofiber has announced a partnership with Quantum Bridge and Juniper Networks with a goal to deliver quantum-safe communication solutions across Eurofiber’s fiber-optic network. This collaboration integrates advanced encryption technologies to secure data transfers against cyberattacks using quantum computers.

Addressing the Threat: DSKE and Post-Quantum Cryptography

The rise in cyber threats, compounded by quantum computing advancements, is driving demand for quantum-safe encryption. According to Eurofiber’s COO Eric Kuisch, “Partnering with Juniper and Quantum Bridge strengthens our commitment to secure and reliable connectivity. The partnership leverages our position as a leader in the fiberoptic market and ensures our customers are protected against evolving cyber threats, including those posed by quantum computing. Over the past few years, we have collaborated with partners to test various advanced technologies, including Post Quantum Cryptography, QKD and DSKE.”

As noted in the release, distributed symmetric key establishment (DSKE) technology, headed by Quantum Bridge, is central to the partnership. Unlike traditional encryption, which relies on asymmetric cryptography vulnerable to quantum algorithms like Shor’s algorithm, DSKE automates the creation and distribution of symmetric keys. Symmetric key systems are resistant to quantum attacks because they do not rely on the mathematical complexity that may be exploited by quantum computers.

Described as combining “the scalability of public key infrastructure, the security of quantum key distribution, and the simplicity of pre-shared keys,” DSKE provides a scalable, defense-in-depth solution. Quantum Bridge’s CEO, Mattia Montagna, highlighted the technology’s role in future-proofing networks: “By integrating our DSKE technology into Eurofiber’s infrastructure and Juniper’s SRX firewalls, we’re not just addressing current security needs but also preparing for the challenges of tomorrow’s digital landscape.”

Quantum-Safe Security for Financial Systems

The partnership’s capabilities were recently demonstrated to global leaders in finance. At a central bank meeting in Rome, Eurofiber showcased how Quantum Bridge’s DSKE technology, integrated with Juniper Networks’ SRX firewalls, could secure financial systems from potential quantum cyberattacks.

Representatives from G7 countries discussed the urgency of migrating to quantum-safe encryption. The demonstration exemplified DSKE’s ability to seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure, offering scalable and immediate protection for sensitive financial data.

Juniper Networks’ Chief Architect and Quantum Lead, Melchior Aelmans, stressed the importance of proactive solutions: “Quantum computers capable of breaking today’s asymmetric encryption may be as little as 5 years away according to some experts. It is therefore vital to act now to protect sensitive data and networks. This is why, together with Eurofiber and Quantum Bridge, we have developed a simple and easy-to-implement system which works with existing network infrastructure, making it easy for government corporations and other key stakeholders to protect their systems.”

Future-Proofing Networks with Scalable Solutions

By combining Quantum Bridge’s unbreakable DSKE technology with Juniper Networks’ infrastructure solutions, Eurofiber ensures its clients have access to advanced encryption without overhauling existing systems. The partnership builds on Eurofiber’s history of testing advanced quantum technologies, including post-quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution. As Kuisch noted, “Over the past few years, we have collaborated with partners to test various advanced technologies, including Post Quantum Cryptography, QKD and DSKE.”

Quantum Bridge’s focus on research further strengthens this initiative. Founded by Dr. Mattia Montagna and Professor Hoi-Kwong Lo, Quantum Bridge develops solutions to make internet and cellular networks quantum-resilient. With experts speculating that quantum computers may disrupt classical encryption within the next decade, partnerships such as this one will play a necessary role in building the foundation to protect sensitive systems.