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Article

Title: QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY: WHEN YOUR LINK HAS TO BE REALLY, REALLY SECURE

Author: Schweber, Bill Article Type: Product Analysis
Source: EDN Magazine, v50 n26 p41(5) Publication Date: Dec 16, 2005
  ISSN: 0012-7515
  Illustrations: Charts, Photographs
URL of Publication: http://www.ednmag.com

BNN Technologies has developed a quantum cryptography (QC) system that promises to provide complete data-link security. The system applies the laws of physics, photon quantum states, and the uncertainty principle to the problem of network security. The system can be used for either a one-time pad or key-passing cryptography modes. A QC system begins with a source of single photons and two polarizing filters. Generating the single photons is not a trivial task, but using the laws of physics rather than complex algorithms ensures the highest level of security. QC utilizes a strong of individual photons and their quantum states. The idea of QC arose in the 1980s, but it has taken some time for appropriate optical components and technological performance to become available. A completely operational QC system has been used in the Boston area since June 2004. BNN Technologies created the system together with other laboratories and firms under the 2002 Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) grant. The system has not been deployed commercially, but it is more than a scientific curiosity. It runs over a 12-mile loop with ten nodes and has run 24 hours per day, seven days per week, requiring essentially no intervention to keep operational. The system includes an Internet gateway so users can link beyond the QC-encrypted nodes.

Special Features: Charts, Photographs

Companies:
BBN Technologies

Products:
Quantum Cryptography

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