CANBERRA, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Australia-based cybersecurity firm QuintessenceLabs joined other security companies in developing and supporting the first recommendations for global quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum random number generators (QRNG). These recommendations were submitted to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) on 7 January and will be discussed at the ITU’s Telecommunication Standardization Section (ITU-T) meeting in Geneva later this month.
An accompanying open letter, written at the Quantum Alliance Initiative conference in December 2018 at the Hudson Institute in Washington, D.C., called on the security community to establish recommendations for QKD and the use of quantum entropy sources, based on the reality of the threat to cybersecurity presented by quantum computers.
The proposed recommendations are the first ever standards for both QKD and QRNG, will be adopted voluntarily as industry standards by the participating organizations, and are expected to facilitate and accelerate the developments of those technologies.
“There is strong interest in quantum key distribution and quantum random number generators from commercial firms and governments alike, seeking to protect our important information from advanced threats such as quantum computers,” said Vikram Sharma, CEO of QuintessenceLabs. “For these technologies to be deployed at large scale, industry needs the guidance of recommendations and standards. The announcement by the Quantum Alliance Initiative is a very significant step in this direction and has the full support of QuintessenceLabs.”
The recommendations were agreed upon by a consortium of 18 companies, universities and entities from eight countries, including QuintessenceLabs, which form the Hudson Institute’s Quantum Alliance Initiative.
About QuintessenceLabs
QuintessenceLabs is a global leader in quantum-enhanced cybersecurity solutions and related commercial developments. It delivers unique products that integrate quantum technology with high-value security technology, including the world’s fastest true random number generator, an advanced key and policy manager, and integrated encryption solutions to keep organizations secure today and prepared for tomorrow, while leaving them focused on doing what they do best. The company is headquartered in Canberra, Australia.
