KETS chip-based QKD now works with Cisco’s network routers

Cisco and KETS Quantum Security have integrated chip-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology with Cisco’s IOS XR routing infrastructure, demonstrating a functional quantum-safe networking solution, the company says. The partnership combines KETS’ QKD system, which generates encryption keys secured by quantum physics, with Cisco routers and existing Media Access Control Security (MACsec) technology, delivering end-to-end encryption without disrupting network performance. “The threat of a quantum computer is today’s problem, not tomorrow’s,” says Lisa Matthews, CEO of KETS Quantum Security, as this integration moves quantum-secure communications toward practical deployment for sectors like finance and defense.This successful demonstration moves quantum-safe communications beyond theoretical discussions and into a functional networking solution, using widely deployed Media Access Control Security (MACsec) technology already present on high-speed Ethernet networks. By building on existing infrastructure, the combined system avoids the need for complete network overhauls, easing adoption for organizations prioritizing long-term data security. Cisco’s support for hardware QKD began with version 7.9.1 of IOS XR in 2023, establishing a foundation for this latest integration.The QKD system utilized in the demonstration, KETS’ QKD v2.0 unit, is the same security-hardened architecture recently trialed by BT, indicating a move toward field-ready solutions. This partnership extends beyond simple compatibility; it demonstrates interoperability, allowing KETS’ QKD system to seamlessly exchange keys with Cisco routers, a critical step for scalable quantum-safe networks.Cisco develops quantum networking hardware and software, including a distributed quantum compiler, to enable interconnected, multi-processor quantum systems, and this integration builds on that existing investment, according to the company. The implications of this collaboration extend across multiple sectors facing increasing regulatory and industry pressure to adopt quantum-safe solutions, including finance, telecommunications, government, and defense.“The moment a large-scale quantum computer is commercially operational, every piece of sensitive data currently being transmitted, from financial transactions to national security secrets, will be exposed.” KETS and Cisco plan to expand their partnership, exploring additional use cases and deeper integration of KETS hardware within Cisco’s broader ecosystem, signaling a commitment to long-term development of quantum-resistant networking solutions.The threat of a quantum computer is today’s problem, not tomorrow’s. The moment a large-scale quantum computer is commercially operational, every piece of sensitive data currently being transmitted, from financial transactions to national security secrets, will be exposed.The integration of KETS Quantum Security’s chip-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) with Cisco IOS XR routers delivers end-to-end encryption using existing Media Access Control Security (MACsec) infrastructure, a departure from solutions requiring complete network replacement. This compatibility allows quantum-secured keys to enhance data protection across networks already secured with widely deployed MACsec technology, streamlining the path to quantum resilience. The demonstration showcased automatic key exchange and encryption between KETS’ QKD system and Cisco routers without impacting network performance, a critical factor for live deployments, the firm reports.This interoperability is built on KETS’ QKD v2.0 unit, the same security-hardened architecture recently tested by BT, signifying a move toward real-world application beyond laboratory settings. The combined system reduces the hardware footprint through chip-scale QKD, offering a more compact and cost-effective solution compared to traditional QKD implementations. Cisco’s development of a distributed quantum compiler and Universal Quantum Switch, preserving quantum information with less than 4% degradation, further supports this layered approach to security. Source: https://kets-quantum.com/cisco-and-kets-partner-to-integrate-quantum-safe-security/ See today’s quantum computing news on Quantum Zeitgeist for the latest breakthroughs in qubits, hardware, algorithms, and industry deals.Rusty is a quantum science nerd. He's been into academic science all his life, but spent his formative years doing less academic things. Now he turns his attention to write about his passion, the quantum realm. He loves all things Quantum Physics especially. Rusty likes the more esoteric side of Quantum Computing and the Quantum world. Everything from Quantum Entanglement to Quantum Physics. Rusty thinks that we are in the 1950s quantum equivalent of the classical computing world. While other quantum journalists focus on IBM's latest chip or which startup just raised $50 million, Rusty's over here writing 3,000-word deep dives on whether quantum entanglement might explain why you sometimes think about someone right before they text you. (Spoiler: it doesn't, but the exploration is fascinating)