Toshiba has recently teamed up with Singapore-based quantum technology company SpeQtral to further efforts to build secure communication systems.
Cybersecurity has been in the spotlight in global conversations surrounding data safety and compliance. Organisations and governments are trying to keep up with the pace at which data is collected, transmitted and processed, resulting in upticks in cyberthreats and risks.
In light of this, Japanese firm Toshiba is promoting for the protection of data communications using quantum key distribution (QKD) technology, by partnering with Singapore-based company Speqtral.
Quantum physics helps secure network communication
In Asia’s stature as a major global economic hub, data is abundant but at risk due to weak data infrastructures. Cybersecurity is thus a rising priority for investment and policymaking in nations such as Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.
Quantum physics can help various sectors by supporting technologies, from autonomous vehicles to advanced cybersecurity. Different governments have already expressed interest; Australia, for one, had announced plans to invest US$73 million in quantum science as a critical technology to serve national interests. Japan and Singapore, meanwhile, are investing quickly in this area as part of national research and development spending. The UK is also planning a general-purpose quantum computer.
Toshiba’s QKD technology uses quantum physics concepts to safeguard private data of companies and citizens. It benefits various sectors such as finance, defense, utilities, health, and critical infrastructure, all of which lays the foundation for smart cities and smart energy grids. QKD can add a layer of protection by distributing secret digital keys necessary for highly sensitive information in many industries.
It improves resilience and preparedness by enabling companies and governments to protect their communication infrastructure.
As a global financial hub, Singapore stores vast amounts of financial assets, transactions and personal information in data centers and on the cloud. In the US, the Department of Energy is leveraging QKD technology to secure smart grids in their power infrastructure. Meanwhile in healthcare, it secures transmission of genome data in Japan.
In sharing their respective expertise, Toshiba and Speqtral aim to power quantum-secure communication solutions with projects that support a range of industries.
