Aug 22, 2011 | |
Briefing: Nanotechnologies for secure communications |
|
(Nanowerk News) The ObservatoryNANO project has released its latest briefing: "Nanotechnologies for Secure Communications". | |
The spectrum of threats and types of attackers targeting information systems are growing, creating security concerns for national security, businesses, and individuals. In this environment, attention to new measures that enhance security is growing at all levels. As a result, public and private standards relevant to information protection are becoming increasingly stringent. | |
Quantum Cryptography (QC) is one emerging security technology that offers radically new protection measures. Quantum key distribution (QKD) encryption, the most advanced recently developed method of QC aimed to distribute a secret key, can be used in conjunction with existing virtual private network service offerings for businesses needing communication services for content requiring a higher degree of confidentiality and protection. | |
Practical realisation of QKD technology relies on availability of systems providing production, propagation and detection of individual light particles - single photons. Single photon sources based on nano-structured materials such as quantum dots, carbon nanotubes and diamond nanowires that have enabled the development, and recent demonstration, of a small number of commercial products. The working distance of existing technologies is currently limited to around 100km; significant development in fibre optics is required to make further advances here. | |
The costs involved in developing QKD-based products also make it impractical for mainstream applications and, for now, these applications are limited to use by major financial institutions, national security and other government agencies. | |
Report Summary | |
|
Source: ObservatoryNANO |
Subscribe to a free copy of one of our daily
Nanowerk Newsletter Email Digests
with a compilation of all of the day's news.
Nanowerk Newsletter Email Digests
with a compilation of all of the day's news.