QUANTUM KEY DISTRIBUTION

Why in News?

C-DOT and Sterlite Technologies Limited successfully tested 'Quantum Key Distribution' (QKD) on Multi-Core Fiber (MCF) for the first time in India, which is an important achievement towards quantum communication network.

About Quantum Key Distribution and Multi-Core Fiber

• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): This is a technology based on the laws of quantum physics which facilitates super-secure communication. In this, data is sent in such a way that no one can hack it.
• Multi-Core Fiber (MCF) Technology: Multi-Core Fiber (MCF) technology provides a powerful solution by enabling data transmission in multiple cores within a single fiber. It has the following advantages-
  • Normal optical fiber has only one channel but MCF has multiple channels (cores) within a single fiber in which more data can be sent simultaneously through a single fiber.
  • It enables physical separation of quantum and classical signals into different cores within a single fibre.
  • It allows simultaneous transmission of QKD and high-capacity data traffic over the same fibre without compromising the integrity of the quantum signal, thereby reducing the cost of the fibre.

 Importance

• Advances in quantum communication
• Possible to create affordable, secure and high-speed networks in the future
• Cost-effective due to technology to send normal and quantum data through a single fiber