New Method to Combine Conventional Internet with the Quantum Internet

Home New Method to Combine Conventional Internet with the Quantum Internet

Current Affairs Science and Technology

Aug 7, 2024

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Context:

A team of researchers from the Institute of Photonics at Leibniz University Hannover have created a novel transmitter-receiver system for sending entangled photons through optical fibres.

Key Highlights:

This breakthrough could pave the way for the quantum internet, allowing next-generation telecommunications to be routed through optical fibres.
Colour Synchronisation: The researchers can adjust the colour of a laser pulse with a high-speed electrical signal to match the colour of entangled photons. This allows the integration and separation of laser pulses and entangled photons in the same optical fibre.
Impact on Data Channels: Previously, entangled photons blocked data channels in optical fibres, limiting conventional data transmission. The new concept allows photons to share the same colour channel as laser light, thus enabling the use of all colour channels for conventional data transmission.
Security and Quantum Computing: The quantum internet promises eavesdropping-proof encryption that even future quantum computers can’t break, ensuring the security of critical infrastructure.

Implications:

The practical implementation of hybrid networks is now within reach, thanks to this groundbreaking research.
By combining the strengths of both conventional and quantum communication, we move closer to a more secure and efficient global network.

New Method to Combine Conventional Internet with the Quantum Internet

What is the Quantum Internet?

The quantum internet is a futuristic network designed to leverage quantum technology for sending, computing, and receiving information.
Unlike the classical internet, which is based on traditional computing principles, the quantum internet aims to provide functionalities such as quantum cryptography and quantum cloud computing.
It will not replace the existing internet but will complement it by solving specific problems that classical systems cannot address as efficiently.
It utilises quantum computers, which process information using quantum bits or “qubits”, representing both 0 and 1 simultaneously.

Significance:

It can provide unhackable encrypted messages through quantum key distribution, enhancing data security.
Sensor Networks: Quantum sensors could offer unprecedented precision for various scientific and practical applications.