Quantum computing can solve complex problems in fractions of a second. Yet, to unlock its full potential, equally advanced infrastructure is required.
Optical fibre provides the speed and stability necessary to transport delicate quantum information wherever it is needed. This article explores how this technology is supporting the development of quantum computing and its role in shaping the future of telecommunications, security, and science.
- The role of optical fibre in driving future tech development
- Quantum cryptography and optical fibre: a digital security revolution
- The indispensability of optical fibre and the Open Fiber project
The role of optical fibre in driving future tech development
Optical fibre and quantum computing form a crucial strategic partnership for the future of technology and computing. Quantum computing, leveraging qubits, can tackle intricate problems far faster than traditional computers. However, to fully realise this capability, it requires infrastructure that ensures speed, stability, and precision in transmitting quantum information. FTTHFTTH “Fiber to the Home” is the technology that connects POPs, located in exchanges, to end users’ property units with fiber optics. (Fibre To The Home) networks, which can handle vast data volumes over long distances with minimal latencyLatency This term indicates the time lapse between the stimulation of a system and the observation of the resulting effect. In telecommunications, by extension, it refers to the time it takes for a data packet to travel from the source computer to the destination computer. and signal loss, are central to this endeavour. Quantum information is extremely delicate, susceptible to decoherence and interference that could compromise its integrity.
The high-precision optical transmission provided by FTTH is ideal for preserving quantum data fidelity during transit. Furthermore, optical fibre supports ultra-broadbandBroadband The term broadband, in telecommunications, generally refers to the transmission and reception of information data at a connection speed of over 144 kb/s. Broadband organises different channels, conveying different content in the form of data, such as Internet radio, animation, audio files and high-definition video. communication, enabling real-time processing and transmission of complex quantum algorithms without disruptions.
This infrastructure is essential for advancing quantum computing not only in research centres but also in practical applications such as advanced cryptography, chemical process simulation, and optimisation in sectors like logistics and finance. The synergy between optical fibre and quantum computing marks a pivotal step towards a future where these technologies collaboratively address global challenges and foster innovation across various industries.
Quantum cryptography and optical fibre: a digital security revolution
Optical fibre also plays a vital role in telecommunications security, particularly in quantum cryptography—an emerging technology poised to revolutionise global communication security. Unlike traditional encryption methods, which may be vulnerable to future quantum computing attacks, quantum cryptography leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to ensure maximum information protection. A prime example is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which uses photons transmitted via optical fibre to securely exchange cryptographic keys.
Optical fibre‘s ability to preserve quantum coherence and minimise signal loss over long distances makes it the perfect medium for transmitting these photons. Crucially, quantum physics guarantees that any interception attempt alters the key’s state, immediately signalling the intrusion.
This unparalleled level of security surpasses traditional technologies and holds immense promise for critical sectors such as finance, defence, and government telecommunications, where safeguarding sensitive data is paramount. As optical fibre becomes more widespread, quantum cryptography is set to become a cornerstone of digital security, shielding global communications from increasingly sophisticated threats.
The indispensability of optical fibre and the Open Fiber project
Today, optical fibre is an essential component of digital infrastructure growth, offering ultra-fast, stable, and secure connections. In our increasingly connected world, this technology is vital not only for telecommunications but also for enabling future innovations such as quantum computing, the InternetInternet The word comes from the fusion of the English terms international and net, i.e. international network. This term refers to the worldwide computer network that users all over the world can access via a computer to transmit and share data and information. of Things (IoTIoT The ‘Internet of things’ is the idea of networking any device with a power button. Paradoxically, this can be anything, from mobile phones to coffee machines, washing machines, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, headphones, lamps, and wearable devices. This also applies to internal machine components, such as sensors in a car. This immense network of connected objects could improve many aspects of our lives: imagine a refrigerator which, by reading the barcodes of the products it stores, could tell us what is about to expire and what has run out, allowing it to suggest a shopping list. A coffee machine that switches on at the right time knowing the alarm time set on your smartphone, a car that suggests the best route to take based on traffic information sent by other cars.), and smart cities. Open Fiber, a leading telecommunications company in Italy, is spearheading an ambitious project to bring FTTH optical fibre to every region in the country. The goal is to provide ultra-broadband access to citizens, businesses, and public administrations alike.
With Open Fiber’s FTTH (Fiber To The Home) networkNetwork In computer language, the term network defines a set of hardware and software devices which, when linked together, enable the exchange and sharing of resources, data or information. In a computer network, the devices that generate, route and terminate data are called network nodes., users can enjoy stable, low-latency connections essential for optimal work, study, and smart device management. Check today to see if your address is covered by Open Fiber’s network and discover how to enhance your connectivity!