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Toshiba Research Europe Ltd., Cambridge Research Laboratory

Quantum Information Group, Quantum Key Server

Toshiba's Quantum Key Server delivers digital keys for cryptographic applications on fibre optic based computer networks. Based on quantum cryptography it provides a failsafe method of distributing verifiably secret digital keys, with significant cost and key management advantages.

Image: Quantum Key Server consists of two compact boxes designed to fit into a communications rack.

The system provides world-leading performance. In particular, it allows key distribution over standard telecom fibre links exceeding 100km in length and bit rates sufficient to generate up to 100 256-bit keys per second.

Toshiba's system uses a simple architecture, in which the photons travel from sender to receiver. This is the only design that has been rigorously proven as secure from all types of eavesdropping attack. This ensures that the Toshiba design will be secure not only today, but also in the future.

Toshiba has pioneered active stabilisation technology that allows the system to distribute key material continuously, in even the most challenging operating conditions, without any user intervention. This avoids the need for recalibration of the system due to temperature-induced changes in the fibre lengths. Initiation of the system is also managed automatically, allowing simple turn-key operation.

The system can be used for a wide range of cryptographic applications, eg encryption or authentication of sensitive documents, messages or transactions. A programming interface gives the user access to the key material.

Toshiba are seeking potential users and partners wishing to develop this technology. We welcome enquiries from interested companies or organisations.

Further Reading

  Type Title and author(s) Source
1 Easy Light holds the key, by Roger Dettmer The IEE Review, July 2005
2 Technical Quantum key distribution over 122km of standard telecom fibre by C Gobby, Z Yuan and A J Shields Applied Physics Letters 84, 3762 (2004)
3 Technical Unconditionally secure key distribution over 50 km of standard telecom fibre by C Gobby, Z Yuan and A J Shields Electronics Letters 40, 1603 (2004)
4 Technical Continuous operation of a one-way quantum key distribution system over installed telecom fibre, by Yuan and Shields Optics Express 13, 660 (2005)
 
 
Link to Quantum Information Group - Quantum Cryptography Solutions for Network Security
Link to Speech Technology Group
Link to Toshiba Fellowship Programme - Join Toshiba's R&D team in Japan for up to two years
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