The live trial showed a solution that uses quantum key distribution and can be integrated with existing networks
The Portuguese operator MEO has secured a link using quantum key distribution (QKD) in the Lisbon Metropolitan area (pictured). The trial used Meo’s infrastructure – combined terrestrial and submarine fibre optic network across three strategic nodes – and Telsy’s Antares platform.
Telsy is TIM’s Enterprise’s centre of excellence for secure communications and cybersecurity, in collaboration with its subsidiary QTI for Quantum Telecommunications Italy.
The trail was live at the European Quantum Technology Conference and demonstrated how QKD can be applied to an existing network; in this case to protect traffic generated by a videoconference between Culturgest, the EQTC 2024 venue in Lisbon and Sesimbra through Telsy’s Antares platform.
The solution is part of the European project QUantum ecOsystems – EQUO, the EuroQCI industrial consortium led by the TIM Group. Its purpose is to design, develop and test QKD solutions that can be integrated into telecommunication networks. QKD technology is one of the most promising solutions for providing an additional layer of security in a world where telecoms networks are considered to be at Very High Risk.
Pierangela Pitzolu, Director of International Government Business Development at Telsy, said the trial had achieved “a significant milestone for quantum-level secure communications and ensuring important technological advances for real telecommunication networks and cross-border interconnections.”
Tommaso Occhipinti, Co-founder and CEO of QTI, added, “We are helping to set a new standard in data security, positioning Europe as a leader in the quantum security ecosystem.”