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Is Quantum Internet Impervious to Cyber Breaches?

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The computers we use in our everyday lives operate on codes that aren’t very reliable, evidenced by the ever-increasing hacking attempts. When a hacker breaks into a system, it’s a huge security and reputational risk for institutes, because secure digital connections determine the efficacy and dependability of organizations. 

Today’s internet is undoubtedly the best connecting resource, but its vulnerability to breaches is concerning. Computer scientists are developing and testing different system prototypes to secure our cyberspace; one such development is quantum-based internet. 

How Does Quantum System Work? 

Quantum internet uses photon-based communication systems to transfer and protect important data. A photon connects different nodes on two systems in a controlled environment for quick and safe data transmission. Moreover, microwave technology and photons’ power secure high-risk files from cyber breaches. Photon-based data transfer requires specialized encryption keys, making it less vulnerable to cyberattacks. 

Advantages of the Quantum Internet 

  • Multi-level Communication 

A quantum internet enables 100s of systems to approach and interpret a single photon emitted from the sender. The quantum internet developers at Sussex University predict that this advancement will significantly reduce the time and resources needed for data transmission.  Quantum systems being used in laboratories are currently limited to 50 or 100 computers, but the number is continuously increasing. Instead of one-to-one data communication, the quantum internet will let multiple systems receive and decode high-risk files. 

  • Controlled Access

Unlike computer codes, these laser-enabled systems require encrypted keys to interpret data. When a computer receives photon-based information, it must use those keys to decode that data, which works as an additional security layer. Although protecting and sharing these keys is prone to some breaches, it’s significantly securer than direct transfers. 

  • Minimized Vulnerability 

Quantum communication available today is limited to a few mini-systems working in safe environments. Once these systems get more advanced and accessible for regular usage, they’ll bar hackers and cyber breaches. This medium is safer and hard-to-access by unknown sources. 

Concerning Factors 

Despite being a highly-advanced and controlled network, quantum internet doesn’t always guarantee 100% security; some cracks are still there. 

  • Human Error 

Since protecting and encrypting the keys depends upon the stakeholders, it’s not a very secure approach. And when the quantum internet doesn’t have the mandatory microwaves or a controlled environment, receiver systems fail to decode the information. The mini-systems available in different institutes work under strict scrutiny and a well-balanced environment, something not always feasible. 

  • Decreased Accuracy 

When the environment or human errors affect the photons, it decreased their accuracy. Since there’s no physical medium, i.e., cords, in quantum systems, their accuracy can dwindle. 

Cybersecurity is worrisome and crucial for the world. Quantum internet is speculated to reduce online security threats in the future. However, it requires massive changes and security layers to replace the system we’re already using. The developers are changing and improving the available quantum internet to fine-tune it for regular usage. Hopefully, we’ll soon see laser-enabled systems, which will be much safer and convenient for everyone.