Ribbon Communications announced that its Apollo optical networking system successfully completed a Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) proof‑of‑concept with CESNET, the Czech Republic’s national academic network. The test demonstrated that the Apollo platform can deliver layer‑1 optical encryption with virtually zero latency and no overhead, allowing encrypted DWDM/OTN networks to carry any client service without interoperability issues.
The milestone confirms Ribbon’s ability to provide end‑to‑end secure optical transport, a capability that could be offered as a value‑added service to operators or used internally to protect critical‑infrastructure traffic. By integrating QKD into its existing optical stack, Ribbon positions itself as a leader in secure communications for service providers and government entities seeking to exclude Chinese equipment from their networks.
The QKD demonstration is part of the international SEQRET project, which aims to develop quantum‑resistant communication infrastructure for European telecom networks. CESNET’s backbone, built on DWDM technology, provided a real‑world testbed that validated the performance of quantum encryption in a high‑capacity optical environment, addressing the growing threat posed by quantum computers to current encryption methods.
Václav Novák, Head of the Network Infrastructure Department at CESNET, said, “Our mission is to ensure the highest level of security for academic and research communications. This successful test builds on our long‑term partnership with Ribbon and demonstrates that quantum encryption can be deployed in real‑world optical networks without compromising performance.” Christian Erbe, Ribbon’s Head of EMEA Sales, added, “QKD represents the future of secure networking. We’re proud to support CESNET and deliver a security solution that is virtually impenetrable and ready for the next generation of network threats.”
The successful proof‑of‑concept signals a significant step toward commercializing quantum‑secure optical transport. It opens a new revenue stream for Ribbon through value‑added services and strengthens its competitive position in the high‑security networking market, while also providing a scalable solution for operators and critical‑infrastructure customers who require quantum‑resistant protection.
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