In research on future-proof cryptographic methods, the dtec.bw-funded MuQuaNet (Munich Quantum Network) project at the University of the German Armed Forces in Munich has reached an important milestone toward highly secure quantum-resistant networks with a newly developed key management system for integrating QKD keys into the R&S®SITLine network encryptors.
Munich, December 21, 2022 – In the age of quantum computers, it is necessary to develop future-proof cryptographic methods. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a method that uses physical properties of quantum mechanics to provide two or more participants with a common and physically secure key for communication. Researchers are working at full speed on this: in the MuQuaNet (Munich Quantum Network) project, the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich is working together with IT security expert Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity, among others, to develop, build and operate a quantum-secure communications network for research and evaluation and to make it available to other research institutions and authorities.
As part of the project, an important milestone toward highly secure quantum-resistant networks has now been reached: the key management system newly developed by Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity for integrating QKD keys into the R&S SITLine network encryptors has been successfully tested.
The network encryptors of the R&S SITLine product family protect governmental and commercial customers against espionage and manipulation of data transmitted via Ethernet over fixed lines, radio links or satellites. They meet the diverse requirements of government institutions, companies and KRITIS and are approved for securing classified data by the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). All network encryptors from Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity are based on 30 years of crypto expertise and are "Security Made in Germany".
MuQuaNet is a research project funded by the dtec.bw. The dtec.bw - Center for Digitalization and Technology Research of the German Armed Forces is a scientific center jointly supported by the Universities of the German Armed Forces in Munich and Hamburg and is part of the German government's economic stimulus program to overcome the COVID-19 crisis. Various partners from research and industry are involved in the project. The University of the Federal Armed Forces Munich is responsible for the project management.