Network Cybersecurity in Post-Quantum Era
The project is focused on long-term strategic research and development of systems for communication network security. The project will provide data about the efficiency and technical readiness of systems for the protection of critical communication networks, will verify the practical applicability of QKD (quantum key distribution) and PQC (post-quantum cryptography) technologies in applications specific for Czech Republic and will further extend research topics in which Czech Republic is unique and excellent (e.g., optical sensors, hardware-accelerated encryption for >100 Gbps traffic, transmission of ultra-stable quantities). Besides the above-identified topics, the project also contains activities for raising awareness and training of experts, in particular in the state sector.
The aim of the project is to connect existing excellent workplaces focused on high-speed network security, applied cryptography, optical and mobile (5G) networks and to respond to current trends, especially the emergence of quantum (QKD) and post-quantum (PQC) systems. The goal is to create a previously non-existent functional link between quantum systems for key distribution and post-quantum systems for encryption and digital signature. However, the output of the project is not only the simulation and design of new systems, but also their practical implementation and evaluation on testbeds within the Czech Republic in close cooperation with the application guarantor NÚKIB. The creation of a network of specialist workplaces, which individually have relevant expertise and technical equipment, will also enable full participation of the Czech Republic in the transnational programmes Horizon Europe and Digital Europe. Although the project is still running, there are already number of high-quality results, such as publications, laboratory testbeds, functional samples and software.
MI CZ