Quantum technology utilizes the laws of physics at the smallest level; that of atoms and even smaller particles. This allows us to do things that are impossible with conventional technology. Take a complex calculation task. You can think of it as a large maze with many possible paths, with only one solution. A classical computer tries path after path. A quantum computer uses natural laws to explore many paths simultaneously.
Another application of quantum technology is the quantum internet: a new and extremely secure type of network. We will need this in the future because quantum computers are so powerful that they can easily crack current internet security. This means that all sensitive information - from bank details to medical records and government communications - could, so to speak, be laid out in the open during the quantum computing era.
Quantum-Safe Communication
QCINed is a national innovation program established in 2023 with support from the European Commission and the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Participants include leading Dutch knowledge institutions, technology companies, and government organizations, including Quantum Delta NL (QDNL), TU Delft, TU Eindhoven, SURF, WeConnect, and Brainport Eindhoven, with support from Q*Bird, RINIS, and Eurofiber. Together, they are working on developing a secure and future-proof quantum communication infrastructure in the Netherlands, as a foundation for a broader European quantum internet. The Dutch government has also contributed from the National Growth Fund to support the development of this secure European quantum communication infrastructure.
The current encryption techniques we rely on are child's play for future quantum computers. Therefore, a new way is needed to protect information exchange, such as QKD. But how does this actually work? Based on individual light particles, a secret key is created. These particles are vulnerable. When you measure them, you also change them. An eavesdropper thus leaves immediate traces. The two endpoints therefore see extra errors in the information exchange. If the error rate is too high, they stop and discard the key. If the error margin remains low, they retain a shared and quantum-safe key with which they can decrypt the information.
Three Dutch Test Networks
QCINed has now set up three test networks in the Netherlands:
- Between Amsterdam and Utrecht, work is being done on the integration between the classical networks we use daily and new quantum networks.
- Between Amsterdam and The Hague, a network is being tested that allows ministries to communicate securely with each other. This trial is a collaboration between the Ministries of Justice and Foreign Affairs and aims to help protect Dutch communication against domestic and foreign quantum threats.
- In Eindhoven, a European open test network has been rolled out that allows companies and institutions to strengthen and continuously develop quantum hardware and software.
QCINed represents a significant step towards a safer digital era for the Netherlands. The project not only helps protect our data but also fosters innovation, new jobs, and international collaboration. There are already discussions with neighboring countries to expand the networks to cities like Berlin, Brussels, and even Southern Europe. Currently, this particularly impacts businesses, governments, and educational institutions, but in the future, citizens will also benefit from it.
"With QCINed, we are making a national debut: the first operational quantum networks in Europe. This puts us at the forefront in Europe and protects the privacy of citizens, the continuity of businesses, and trust in our digital government. Thus, we invest in the safety and sovereignty of tomorrow and in innovation and new jobs today," said Pieter de Witte, director at QDNL.
