The digital world as we know it faces a looming threat and the clock is ticking to prepare. While still largely discussed as a future possibility, the potential for quantum computers to break today’s most trusted encryption methods is rapidly becoming a present-day reality. In a new episode of Orange Business Radio, leading quantum physicist Dr. Andrew Shields details how telecommunications operators can proactively defend against this quantum threat now, not years from now. With the launch of France’s first commercial quantum-safe network, and live deployments already underway across major cities, the conversation shifts from theoretical possibility to practical implementation – and the need for a robust, multi-layered security strategy.
Current Quantum Network Deployments
While a fully realized global quantum internet remains a future goal, current deployments demonstrate quantum networking is moving beyond laboratory settings and into commercial reality. Orange Business and Toshiba recently launched France’s first commercial quantum-safe network in Paris, combining post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD) on live fiber. This isn’t an isolated instance; live deployments are also operational in London, Tokyo, Singapore, and North America, achieving metro distances of 150-250 kilometers. Notably, Twin-Field QKD technology is extending reach to 600 kilometers, paving the way for longer-distance connections. These initial networks focus on securing data transmission with quantum-resistant methods, but the groundwork is being laid for future expansions – connecting quantum computers and ultimately creating distributed quantum computing resources accessible remotely. This progression signifies a shift from theoretical planning to tangible, scalable solutions available to operators today.
Building a Quantum-Safe Future
Building a quantum-safe future is no longer a distant prospect, but an immediate necessity, driven by the looming threat to current encryption methods. Recent advancements, exemplified by the launch of Orange Quantum Defender – France’s first commercial quantum-safe network – demonstrate viable solutions are available now. This network leverages a dual approach, combining post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD) for a robust “defence-in-depth” strategy. While initial deployments cover metro distances of up to 250 kilometers – with Twin-Field QKD extending this to 600 kilometers – the vision extends to a global quantum internet facilitated by satellites and quantum repeaters. Notably, live quantum-safe networks are already operational in major cities like Paris, London, and Tokyo, proving the technology’s maturity beyond laboratory settings. As 2025 approaches – designated the International Year of Quantum – organizations are rightly demanding quantum-safe roadmaps, and practical, scalable solutions are emerging to address this critical security challenge.
