Colt and Ciena have tested quantum-safe data transmission over a 6,900 km distance, confirming its viability for secure communications.
Colt Technology Services and Ciena have successfully conducted a test for quantum-safe data transmission between New York and London, covering a distance of 6,900 km through a combination of underwater and terrestrial cables at a rate of 800 Gbps.
The engineers employed the Ciena WaveLogic 6 Extreme platform, which proved that it is possible to secure high-speed communications against potential quantum threats without compromising performance.
With the rise of quantum computing, experts predict that cybercriminals may eventually be able to decrypt current encryption methods, potentially as soon as 2030. A recent survey found that 69% of organizations regard quantum computing as a significant risk to existing security protocols.
This recent trial confirmed that quantum-safe technologies can be effectively implemented on one of the busiest transatlantic communication routes, maintaining stable optical performance throughout the entire connection.
In response to the successful tests, Colt plans to provide clients with various security solutions, including post-quantum cryptography, quantum key distribution, and hybrid models, targeting sectors like fintech, healthcare, government, and data centers.
Previously, in November 2024, Colt and Ciena achieved a data transmission speed of 1.2 Tbps across the Atlantic during earlier joint tests.
Moreover, a research collaboration was announced in June involving OQC, JPMorgan Chase, and AMD, focusing on quantum and hybrid computing applications for the financial industry at a specialized Quantum-AI data center in London.
