KETS Quantum Security has developed a smaller, cheaper quantum security hardware which is currently being trialled by BT.

The UK firm has completed development of a security-hardened and scalable quantum key distribution (QKD) prototype.

KETS futureproofs critical infrastructure for government contract 

KETS Quantum Security says that the unique system will protect critical infrastructure and telecommunication networks, aided by funding through a Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) government contract. 

Awarded by Innovate UK, as part of the National Quantum Technologies Programme, BT was consulted on the design of the product to uphold the requirements and specifications as an end-user and BT is now testing the prototype.

Working with BT, the KETS Quantum Security team has developed a product that is the size of a server, making it small enough to be used in mission-critical infrastructure globally.  

The new system transitions to integrated silicon chips for its optical heart, enabling KETS’ roadmap to continue shrinking the system, whilst also being able to source chips at scale.

This is a crucial development that makes QKD a viable commercial offering.

Effective defence

According to KETS Quantum Security, the scalability is particularly critical for telecommunications providers to create an effective defence against a quantum attack. 

Current cybersecurity defences are vulnerable to a quantum computer and KETS Quantum Security articulates that it has developed a fully chip-based solution that provides high levels of security, robustness and networking flexibility.  

Chris Erven, CEO and Co-Founder, KETS Quantum Security commented: “As enterprises begin to truly appreciate the importance of quantum-safe security, deployment of QKD is becoming more and more widespread.

“In response, we have delivered a QKD system that meets the key demands of security, reliability and flexibility at scale for the first time.

“This breakthrough will help ensure that the UK will be at the heart of the global supply chain for commercial quantum-safe communications.” 

“Security is a key priority”

Andrew Lord, Head of Optical Networks and Quantum Research, BT said: “As the UK’s leading provider of fixed and mobile telecommunications, security is a key priority and developing quantum secure communications is an important part of that.

“The prototype Quantum Key Distribution system that KETS has developed, is an example of a leading technology that has the potential to offer protection against current and future cyber-threats, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data in the quantum era.”

Lord continued: “We look forward to putting it through our tests and acceptance procedures, which are crucial for every product we deploy into our network.”

Callum Stirling, Innovation Lead for Quantum Technologies, Innovate UK said: “KETS have delivered a prototype ‘system hardened, scalable, and interoperable’ QKD product to Innovate UK.

“The £1.7M project – under an SBRI contract – has very successfully accelerated the product development, showing that the UK is a leader in quantum network components and systems.”

Stirling finalised: “Supporting innovators to work with end users ensures that quantum networking technologies are developed with consideration to operational environments, which helps reduce potential barriers to commercial adoption.”