European scientists create computer network protected by quantum cryptography

19th October 2008

European scientists have become one step closer to creating absolute informational protection completely eliminating any probability of cracking. At the scientific conference held in Vienna, the first in the world computer network protected by means of super-reliable methods of quantum enciphering was shown.
Quantum cryptography differs from traditional mechanisms of protection and is used for enciphering information transferred via optical connection channels. Main ideas of quantum cryptography were formulated about 25 years ago by Charles Bennett from IBM and Gilles Brassard from Montreal University. These encryption methods are based on the Heisenberg uncertainty principle according to which it is impossible to measure the quantum information, without breaking its integrity. Thus, the malefactor cannot intercept data transmitted, without revealing himself.
The network demonstrated to the conference participants consists of six units allocated in territory of Vienna and the nearby small town of St Poelten and of a 200-km standard fiber optic cable, linked with each other. The equipment is supported by the company Siemens which is further to be engaged in commercialization of the technology.
The development may be applied in the military, bank and financial sphere in the future.