In a groundbreaking advancement, researchers at Leibniz University Hannover have developed a novel transmission method that integrates the quantum internet with the conventional internet over existing optical fibers. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize secure communications by combining quantum technology with conventional internet protocols, enhancing data security and optimizing infrastructure use.
A Revolutionary Transmitter-Receiver System
The research team from the Institute of Photonics at Leibniz University Hannover has created an innovative transmitter-receiver system capable of transmitting entangled photons via optical fibers. This development is seen as a critical step toward the next generation of telecommunications — the quantum internet. Quantum internet technology promises eavesdropping-proof encryption methods that will remain secure even against future quantum computers, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure and sensitive communications.
How the Quantum Transmission Works
During their experiments, the researchers successfully demonstrated that the entanglement of photons is preserved even when transmitted alongside a laser pulse through optical fibers. The key to this achievement lies in the ability to change the color of a laser pulse using a high-speed electrical signal to match the color of the entangled photons.
“This effect allows us to combine laser pulses and entangled photons of the same color within an optical fiber and then separate them again after transmission,” explains Philip Rübeling, a doctoral student at the Institute of Photonics specializing in quantum internet research.
Towards Hybrid Networks: Combining Conventional and Quantum Internet
This breakthrough makes it possible to integrate both quantum and conventional internet transmissions using the same color channel in an optical fiber — a feat that was not achievable before. “Entangled photons typically block a data channel in the optical fiber, making it unusable for conventional data transmission,” says Jan Heine, another doctoral student in the research team.
However, with the new technique demonstrated in their experiments, the photons can be transmitted in the same color channel as the laser light, allowing all color channels to remain available for conventional data transmission. “Our experiment demonstrates how hybrid networks, combining both quantum and conventional internet technologies, can be practically implemented,” states Prof. Michael Kues, Head of the Institute of Photonics and Board Member of the PhoenixD Cluster of Excellence.
Implications for the Future of Telecommunications
The successful combination of quantum and conventional internet on a single optical fiber channel represents a major step forward in the development of hybrid networks. This innovation could pave the way for the seamless integration of quantum technology into existing internet infrastructure, potentially leading to unprecedented advancements in secure and efficient communications.
Reference:
- “Quantum and coherent signal transmission on a single-frequency channel via the electro-optic serrodyne technique,” by Philip Rübeling, Jan Heine, Robert Johanning, and Michael Kues, published on 26 July 2024 in Science Advances. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn8907
