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The previous secure quantum communications record was smashed by more than nearly 50 miles
According
to The Eurasian Times, scientists from Beijing have set a new world record for
quantum secure direct communication (QSDC) of 102.2 km (64 miles), a huge
improvement over the previous record of 18 km (11 miles).
Because
of the nature of the technology, the discovery could someday lead to a huge
quantum communications network that is virtually hacker-proof.
The
researchers reported transmission speeds of 0.54 bits per second in an article
published in Nature, which is significantly slower than communications using
traditional computing devices. Even so, it was fast enough to encrypt phone
calls and text messages over a 30-kilometer distance (19 miles).
The
previous record was set by the same team, and they developed a "novel
design of physical system with a new protocol" to break it and greatly
improve on their previous design by removing the "complicated active
compensation subsystem," allowing for "ultra-low quantum bit error
rate (QBER) and long-term stability against environmental noises."
The
researchers claim that their experiment demonstrates that "intercity
quantum secure direct communication across the fibre is doable with current
technology." They believe that quantum channels might be used to replace
elements of today's internet, preventing hackers from listening in on their
conversations.
Developing a hacker-proof communications network
To
safeguard communications networks, QSDC employs a quantum physics quirk known
as entanglement. Entangled particles are irrevocably linked, which means that
changing one's attribute changes the other's as well. This means that any
effort at hacking will be recognised right away.
In
February, a team of scientists from the Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne
National Laboratory and the University of Chicago achieved a new record in
quantum research by maintaining a quantum state for more than five seconds.
Their study, they believe, will enable more intricate quantum calculations and,
eventually, a "distributed quantum internet."
We're
still a long way from seeing quantum computers deliver on their promise in a
commercial context, but quantum internet infrastructure is getting closer to
reality. It's a development that has the potential to transform the way
businesses and individuals communicate online, allowing them to do so with far
more security than previously.
Reference: Journal Nature
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