Long Distance eQKD

The Solution

Long Distance eQKD

Long-Distance eQKD is designed for intercity connections of up to 350 km. Because quantum signals cannot be read out or amplified due to the no-cloning theorem, losses over such distances are significant. Thanks to zerothird’s advances in sources and detection units, however, our system enables quantum-secure key creation even across these ranges—placing our solution well ahead of the competition.

Unlike many competing BB84-based systems that require multiple trusted nodes along the fiber, zerothird’s technology eliminates this need, dramatically reducing infrastructure costs and complexity. As a result, the cost per secure bit is substantially lower, while reliability and scalability remain unmatched.

The use of BBM92 further strengthens security, even with untrusted sources, since entanglement ensures no additional copy of the quantum information can exist. With both photons of a pair generated in the C-band, the source can be flexibly placed anywhere between endpoints, enabling symmetric long-haul architectures. When combined with superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs), the system can bridge losses of up to 60 dB without intermediate nodes—delivering quantum-grade protection with reduced operational overhead.

Long-distance connection with source-in-the-middle configuration. Note that the source does not have to be trusted in this configuration. This “symmetric” approach can bridge up to 60dB of loss due to the fact that zerothird uses high-end nanowire technology and all of the photons created by the source live in the C-band.

QKD SPECIFICATIONS

Protocol

BBM92 (entanglement based), discrete-variable (DV) QKD

Source intrinsic QBER

< 0.5%

QBER During Operation

optimized for maximum key rate

Secure key rate

>100 x 256bit AES key per hour @ 300 km / 60 dB

Quantum channel

dedicated dark fiber (provided by customer)

Quantum channel length

system optimized for ~ 300 km

Central wavelength

1560 nm, ITU grid

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Power supply / consumption

230 V ± 5%; < 4 kW (complete system)

Mechanical system

19’’ modular sub-rack systems
1x entangled photon pair source
2x detection units with SNSPD
2x secure key generation hardware units

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should quantum threats impact my compliance strategy?

Quantum computing poses a direct threat to current cryptographic protocols mandated by regulatory bodies. Compliance standards increasingly require quantum-resistant measures, making proactive quantum-readiness essential to avoid regulatory risk and financial penalties.

How does zerothird’s consulting service mitigate quantum risks?

Our consulting team assesses your existing infrastructure, identifies quantum vulnerabilities, and provides clear, actionable roadmaps. We help implement quantum-safe practices, ensuring your compliance strategy meets future regulatory and security demands.

Is quantum compliance relevant today, or is it a future issue?

Quantum compliance is a current issue because encrypted data intercepted today can be stored and decrypted by future quantum systems. Immediate action ensures current compliance and safeguards sensitive data against future decryption risks.

What industries benefit most from quantum compliance consulting?

Highly regulated sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, telecom, defense, and critical infrastructure, particularly benefit from quantum consulting, as they face significant compliance and operational risks from quantum threats.

What does a typical quantum compliance engagement include?

An engagement typically involves a quantum vulnerability assessment, regulatory impact analysis, development of a quantum-readiness strategy, detailed recommendations, implementation support, and ongoing risk management consulting tailored to your specific regulatory environment.

LONG DISTANCE eQKD