Project demonstrates modular, high-performance CV-QKD encryption

Adva Network Security recently announced the successful completion of DE-QOR, a collaborative research project in Germany aimed at addressing cybersecurity risks associated with quantum computing. The project focused on developing a high-performance continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) encryption system. Funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the three-year initiative was led by Adva Network Security and involved experts from Leibniz University Hannover, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), as well as industry partners Microwave Photonics and Creonic.

The primary goal of the DE-QOR project was to develop innovative components and subsystems while demonstrating a next-generation CV-QKD system that could seamlessly integrate with commercial telecommunications networks. By adopting a modular, open architecture, DE-QOR aimed to create a cost-effective, scalable, and certifiable approach to quantum-safe encryption. Tobias Fehenberger, project coordinator of DE-QOR and director of R&D at Adva Network Security, emphasized the significance of the project in advancing quantum-safe encryption technologies.

The project successfully showcased the feasibility of open, disaggregated CV-QKD by combining technology and expertise from academic and industrial partners. The final trials integrated Adva Network Security’s ConnectGuard™ encryption solution, utilizing quantum-generated keys for secure data transmission over fibre infrastructure. Real-time digital signal processing ensured high performance and efficiency, with flexibility for future upgrades. The project demonstrated that modular QKD can provide scalable and cost-effective security using commercial off-the-shelf technology and standard interfaces.

On March 27, the project’s final demonstration at LMU highlighted the real-world performance of the CV-QKD system and its seamless integration with commercial telecommunications networks. This successful demonstration laid a strong foundation for future certification and mass deployment of the technology. Michael Roth, GM of Adva Network Security, emphasized the scalability and cost-effectiveness of the quantum-safe encryption solution developed through the DE-QOR project.

By designing an open, modular solution, the project team demonstrated that quantum-safe encryption can be both scalable and cost-effective. Leveraging commercial off-the-shelf technology and open interfaces ensures interoperability with existing telecommunications networks, simplifying certification and enabling flexible deployment across various environments. The disaggregated model allows for continuous innovation and optimization, with each module rigorously tested to deliver outstanding performance. The success of the DE-QOR project is a testament to the European and German industry’s leadership in quantum security and sets the stage for the widespread adoption of practical, next-generation encryption technologies.