OpenQKD

ISQKMS

a research project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research

Interoperable Secure Quantum Key Management System

Motivation

In the approaching age of quantum computers, it is necessary to use future-proof cryptographic methods to protect confidential information. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a technique that utilizes quantum physical properties of light to enable communication protected from quantum computers. The availability of certifiable and approvable quantum key management systems (KMS) and QKD controllers is a central building block for the regulatory and commercial operation of future data networks secured by QKD.

Approach and goals

The goal of the project ISQKMS is to develop a KMS that meets the highest security requirements. The KMS accepts quantum keys, manages them over their entire lifecycle, and passes them on to the applications in response to user requests. The basis for this is a detailed consideration, analysis and sophisticated design of the system, especially from a cybersecurity point-of-view. In addition to a strong security architecture, however, the focus lies also on defining standardized interoperable interfaces. This should enable trouble-free, long-range data communication within federated networks with multiple network operators, regardless of the hardware of the users.

In ISQKMS, Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity focuses in particular on the development of QKD controllers that manage the forwarding of quantum keys and thus the interaction between multiple KMS across the network. In order to achieve the highest possible flexibility, Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity follows the concept of Software Defined Networks (SDN).

Project organization

ISQKMS is a joint research project funded by the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF, German Federal Ministry of Education and Research) within the QuNET+ initiative. Various subject-specific partners from research and industry are involved in the project. The evolutionQ GmbH is responsible for the project management.

  • Project promoter: VDI/VDE-IT Berlin
  • Project partners: evolutionQ GmbH, KEEQuant GmbH, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, ADVA Optical Networking SE, Dacoso GmbH, Utimaco IS GmbH, OHB System AG, Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity GmbH
  • Project duration: 10/2022 – 09/2025

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