The future of data security could hinge on the transmission of information as encrypted light particles, with a new joint U.S.-Swiss research paving t

The Future of Quantum Security Will Be Encoded in Light, Researchers Hope

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2023-01-23 23:00:07

The future of data security could hinge on the transmission of information as encrypted light particles, with a new joint U.S.-Swiss research paving the way for quantum cryptographic devices to create a new cybersecurity scheme.

The eventual development of a fully-operational quantum computer has the potential to render current data security practices utterly ineffective. The U.S.-funded quantum technology research initiative aims to solve this problem by marrying both classical and quantum technology to further safeguard digital networks ahead of the advent of quantum computing.

Stemming from the recent U.S.-Swiss bilateral collaboration in quantum technology, a team of researchers in Switzerland is working specifically with device-independent quantum cryptography—a process that would allow the standard computers of today to transmit secure encryptions with a quantum-capable add-on.

Renato Renner, professor for theoretical physics and head of the research group for Quantum Information Theory at ETH Zürich, serves as one of the lead theorists within the U.S.-Swiss partnership. He explained to Nextgov that these devices look to arm the current familiar computing systems with quantum protections.