North Columbus News

Researchers at The Ohio State University have achieved a significant milestone in cybersecurity by demonstrating quantum key distribution (QKD) between two buildings on the Columbus campus using in-ground optical fiber. This marks an important step forward for quantum information science and engineering at the university.

Globally, the research community is still in the early stages of developing infrastructures and validating QKD principles. This technology leverages quantum physics properties to enhance information security.

"QKD links are a stepping-stone for a much larger entanglement-based quantum network that will ultimately become the quantum internet," stated Ronald M. Reano, professor of electrical and computer engineering.

The established quantum link connects a transmitter, Alice, located at the Ohio Academic Resources Network (OARnet), with a receiver, Bob, at the Electroscience Laboratory (ESL). In this setup, Alice sends single photons to Bob via optical fiber. These photons are encoded with a QKD protocol enabling Alice and Bob to share an exclusive encryption key.

QKD offers theoretical information-theoretic security unlike classical protocols that face increasing breach risks over time. "An attempt by an eavesdropper to obtain the secret key will reveal their presence," explained Reano, who leads the project.

The link is designed to operate continuously with battery backup during power outages.

Collaboration with OARnet has integrated quantum technology into real-world operations ensuring classical internet connectivity today. "Working closely with researchers at Ohio State has allowed us to think strategically about the future of quantum information as it relates to information security on campus as well as statewide," said Pankaj Shah, executive director of OARnet. "Quantum is no longer just an abstract notion for us."

Funding for this research comes from the U.S. Department of Education and Ohio Department of Higher Education Third Frontier Initiative. The new link will be managed by Ohio State’s Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering, co-led by Reano and Ezekiel Johnston-Halperin, professor of physics. Future plans include transmitting single photons from Columbus to Dayton, Cleveland, and eventually Chicago.

The team will also explore use-cases in sectors like finance and medicine that require long-term security for sensitive data transmission.

"It is an incredible experience to work with quantum hardware and bring theoretical ideas into the real world," said Wendson de Sa Barbosa, a postdoctoral researcher involved in the project.