Quantum communication system

Abstract

Quantum communication system (1) comprising a transmitting node (2) for encrypting and transmitting encrypted information data; a receiving node (3) for receiving and decrypting the encrypted information data; and a quantum communication channel (4) coupling the transmitting node (2) to the receiving node (3) for transferring the encrypted information data, wherein the system (1) comprises a quantum key distribution module (5) using a first protocol based on quantum properties, a cryptography module (6) using a second protocol based on non-quantum properties, and a processor (7) coupled to the quantum key distribution module (5) and the cryptography module (6) for integrating the first protocol and the second protocol and generating a hybrid cryptographic key, wherein the information data are encrypted and decrypted using the hybrid cryptographic key.

Description

[0001] QUANTUM COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a quantum communication system and a corresponding method for operating said quantum communication system. In particular, the present invention relates to a quantum communication system that specifically employs artificial intelligence models for real-time monitoring and security adaptation, incorporates quantum-resilient cryptographic protocols, and facilitates multi-channel Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to ensure secure and efficient communication over extended distances.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The growing necessity for secure communication systems has catalyzed advancements in quantum communication technologies, with a particular emphasis on Quantum Key Distribution. Nevertheless, current systems encounter constraints regarding error detection, key management, and the transmission of data over long distances. Furthermore, traditional cryptographic systems are increasingly susceptible to assaults from quantum computing technologies.

[0006] Consequently, there is a necessity for an improved communication system able to detect anomalies in real time and to adapt the communication protocols based of the detected anomalies. Also, there is the necessity for a communication system able to facilitate secure longdistance quantum communication.

[0007] Examples of the present disclosure seek to address or at least alleviate the above problems.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] In a first aspect, there is provided a quantum communication system comprising: a transmitting node for encrypting and transmitting encrypted information data; a receiving node for receiving and decrypting the encrypted information data; and a quantum communication channel coupling the transmitting node to the receiving node for transferring the encrypted information data, wherein the system comprises a quantum key distribution module using a first protocol based on quantum properties, a cryptography module using a second protocol based on non-quantum properties, and a processor coupled to the quantum key distribution module and the cryptography module for integrating the first protocol and the second protocol and generating a hybrid cryptographic key, wherein the information data are encrypted and decrypted using the hybrid cryptographic key.

[0010] In a second aspect there is provided a method for operating a quantum communication system including a transmitting node, a receiving node, and a quantum communication channel coupling the transmitting node to the receiving node for transferring encrypted information data, the method comprising: generating a hybrid cryptographic key by integrating a first protocol based on quantum properties used by a quantum key distribution module with a second protocol based on non-quantum properties used by a cryptography module; and encrypting and decrypting information data using said hybrid cryptographic key.

[0011] Other aspects and features are defined in the appended claims.

[0012] Examples of the disclosure may make possible to provide a quantum communication system that ensures communication security and that facilitates commination over long distances.

[0013] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Examples of the disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like references refer to like parts, and in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a quantum communication system according to an example.

[0016] Figure 2 is a flow diagram of the method for operating the quantum communication system according to an example.

[0017] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] A quantum communication system and a method for operating said quantum communication system are disclosed. In the following description, a number of specific details are presented in order to provide a thorough understanding of the examples of the disclosure. It will be apparent however to a person skilled in the art that these specific details need not be employed in order to practice the examples of the disclosure. Conversely, specific details known to the person skilled in the art are omitted for the purposes of clarity in presenting the examples.

[0019] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a quantum communication system 1. The system 1 can be part of a communication network and comprises at least a transmitting node 2 for transmitting information data and at least a receiving node 3 for receiving said information data. The information data are encrypted using a cryptographic key for improving the security across the network. A quantum communication channel 4 couples the transmitting node 2 to the receiving node 3 for transferring the encrypted information data.

[0020] To facilitate the adaptable implementation of the quantum communication system 1 in diverse environments, thereby ensuring secure communication across a range of distances, the quantum communication channel 4 can have a multi channel architecture comprising at least one of a free-space optical, a fiber optic, and a satellite communication technology.

[0021] The multi-channel architecture ensures a reliable communication across diverse communication media. Based on the channel conditions, it is possible to use one of different communication media. For example, the quantum communication channel 4 can be a free-space (or an optical wireless) communication, e.g. satellite communication, including a high bandwidth capacity. In alternative or in addition, the quantum communication channel 4 can rely on a fiber optic communication, e.g. single mode or multi-mode optical fiber, for increasing the data transmission volume and the transmission speed.

[0022] The quantum communication system 1 , in particular the transmitting node 2, comprises a quantum key distribution module 5 and a cryptography module 6. Both the quantum key distribution module 5 and the cryptography module 6 serve to produce a secret key employing a dedicated protocol. Whereas the quantum key distribution module 5 employs a protocol based on quantum properties (first protocol), the cryptography module 6 employs a protocol based on nonquantum properties (second protocol). In other words, the quantum key distribution module 5 is configured to generate a shared secret key securely by using quantum mechanical properties to detect eavesdropping attempts. On the other hand, the cryptography module 6 does not use quantum properties and employs standard cryptographic systems including mathematical algorithms for encryption, decryption, key generation, and key management.

[0023] The quantum communication system 1 , in particular the transmitting node 2, comprises a processor 7, i.e. a transmitting processor, coupled to the quantum key distribution module 5 and the cryptography module 6 for controlling and managing the operation of these two modules. Specifically, the processor 7 is configured to integrate the first protocol and the second protocol to generate a hybrid cryptographic key that is used to encrypting and decrypting information data.

[0024] For example, the first protocol can be a QKD protocol, thereby facilitating secure key exchange grounded in the foundational principles of quantum mechanics. In particular, the first protocol can be a continuous-variable quantum key distribution (cv-QKD) protocol, which encodes information in the quadratures of the electromagnetic field. The second protocol can be a latticebased cryptography protocol or hash based cryptography protocol, which exhibits a high degree of resilience against potential quantum computing attacks. By integrating both protocols, it is possible to improve the security in exchanging the cryptographic key and at the same time be resilient to quantum threats.

[0025] In examples, the QKD module 5 is configured to generate an initial cryptographic key using the first protocol. The initial cryptographic key can be further processed and employed as input data in the cryptography module 6 to generate the hybrid cryptographic key by using the second protocol. This two-steps key generation provides an hybrid cryptographic key integrating both the advantages of using a classical and a quantum based protocol. in an embodiment, the quantum key distribution (QKD) module 5 is configured to produce an initial cryptographic key utilizing a first protocol grounded in quantum mechanical principles; a cryptography module that accepts the initial cryptographic key and subsequently processes it through a second protocol, wherein the second protocol dynamically chooses among various classical cryptographic methods contingent upon real-time system conditions; and a feedback mechanism that perpetually refreshes the hybrid cryptographic key by reintegrating the key into the QKD module 5, integrating real-time measurements of quantum channel parameters and environmental data.

[0026] According to an example, the initial cryptographic key can be divided into multidimensional quantum states (qudits), with each fragment undergoing individual encryption through unique classical cryptographic transformations prior to the reassembly into the final hybrid cryptographic key.

[0027] As shown in the figure, the quantum communication system 1 can comprise at least a quantum transceiver 10, each quantum transceiver 10 comprising at least a portion made of superconductive materials, at least a portion made of a two-dimensional material like graphene, and at least a portion made of metal oxides. The quantum transceiver 10 serves to transmit and receive quantum information data and can be placed at the transmitting node 2 as well as at the receiving node 3. The quantum transceiver 10 is connected to a processor 7, 13. In particular, at the transmitting node 2 the quantum transceiver 10 is connected to a transmitting processor 7 and at the receiving node 3, the quantum transceiver 10 is connected to a receiving processor 13. Since the quantum transceiver 10 works like an antenna, this element can also be defined as a quantum antenna.

[0028] For example, at least a portion of the quantum antenna 10, e.g. the base, can be made of niobium or yttrium barium copper oxide (YBCO) materials to attain superconductivity at cryogenic temperatures, typically below 10 °K. Since these materials have the ability to function at extremely low temperatures, it results in a substantial decrease in electrical resistance and signal loss. Other portions of the quantum antenna 10 can be made of graphene conductive layers. One or more graphene layers can be integrated in the quantum antenna 10 to improve conductivity and mechanical robustness, hence enhancing the antenna's longevity and performance. Also, lithium niobate waveguides can be integrated into the antenna’s structure to effectively modify and direct light.

[0029] In particular, each quantum transceiver 10 (or quantum antenna 10) can be configured to utilize quantum phenomena such as superposition and entanglement to enable safe transmission.

[0030] In other words, the quantum antenna is configured to integrate elements capable of preserving particles in superposition states, enabling them to simultaneously embody multiple values. This is crucial for quantum information processing. Also, the quantum antenna can be configured to generate and preserve entangled states among particles. This property is essential for quantum key distribution (QKD) and secure communication.

[0031] Advantageously, each quantum transceiver 10 comprises an entangled photon source 11 and a quantum detector 12. The entangled photon source 11 can be for example a spontaneous parametric Down-Conversion (SPDC) device that is integrated in the quantum transceiver 10 for generating entangled photon pairs. Devices based on quantum dots or alternative quantum emitters as sources can be used to generate superposition states in photons. The quantum detector 12 can be a Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detector (SNSPD) for high efficiency photon detection. The detectors can be connected to the quantum antenna 10 in order to guarantee precise measurements of the quantum state.

[0032] In this way, the quantum antennas 10 are configured to provide secure and efficient communication by utilizing sophisticated materials and harnessing quantum features like superposition and entanglement. By incorporating these components with Al-powered security procedures, the strength and dependability of the quantum communication system 1 is significantly improved, rendering it appropriate for high-security applications across many industries. Specifically, the use of superconductors and sophisticated materials helps to minimize the loss of signal by reducing signal attenuation, whereas the antenna's capacity to detect and process weak quantum signals is improved due to enhanced material characteristics.

[0033] To augment the originality of the quantum antennas 10 for secure communication, the direction and focus of the quantum antenna 10 can be dynamically adjusted, based on current environmental conditions and communication needs, in order to maximize beam steering. This function enables the antenna 10 to adjust to variations in the surroundings, such as meteorological conditions or physical obstacles, guaranteeing the best possible performance and security. For example, machine learning algorithms can be used to consistently analyze the quality of signals and environmental data, thereby making adjustments to the direction of the antenna's beam in order to sustain optimal connection. Also, reinforcement learning can be implemented to enhance the performance of beam steering systems by optimizing response times and accuracy.

[0034] The quantum antennas 10 can furthermore function across several communication modes, including THz, infrared, and optical frequencies, by utilizing a single antenna array. The antenna's adaptability improves its capacity to manage different quantum communication channels. In one example, the quantum transceiver 10 is an antenna arrays with elements capable of transitioning between several frequency modes to accommodate specific communication needs. Photonic integrated circuits can be used to control signal processing for several modes inside a single antenna array.

[0035] To improve the efficiency and safeguard the quantum antenna 10, quantum entanglement can be employed. This can entail utilizing entangled photon pairs to establish extremely secure communication channels that exhibit resistance to eavesdropping and tampering. In this way, the quantum antenna 10 is configured to produce and sustain entangled photon pairs, and to use these pairings to construct secure communication connections.

[0036] By implementing quantum error correction algorithms, it is possible to safeguard entangled states against decoherence and other forms of quantum noise.

[0037] The polarization state of transmitted quantum signals can be adjusted in real-time via an adaptive polarization control module. This improves the resilience of the communication channel against polarization-dependent losses and disruptions. For example, this module can be assisted by artificial intelligence algorithms to monitor the polarization status of the received signals and make necessary adjustments to the transmitter's polarization.

[0038] To improve the scalability and resilience of the quantum communication system 4, a plurality of quantum antennae 10 can form a quantum antenna networks that enable dispersed quantum communication among several nodes. In this way, the network of quantum antennas is capable of exchanging quantum keys and data among numerous nodes through entanglement swapping and quantum repeaters. Network coding techniques can be used to enhance the efficiency of distributing quantum information throughout the network.

[0039] It is noted that to bolster the security of the communication system, the following expedients can be employed.

[0040] Quantum machine learning algorithms can be used to detect anomalies by training quantum neural networks on quantum data in order to enhance the efficiency of threat recognition and response. A federated learning framework can be created to enable distributed anomaly detection. This framework allows edge devices to collectively train a central model for threat detection, while ensuring that raw data is not shared. Specifically, the federated learning can be employed to facilitate distributed key management, a process in which cryptographic keys are collectively managed and updated by several devices. This approach enhances security and resilience. The blockchain technology can be integrated to ensure secure and transparent administration of cryptographic keys.

[0041] Also, an Al security architecture can be created that incorporates many layers and integrates diverse Al techniques to offer all-encompassing protection. This system can incorporate tiers for detecting anomalies, implementing adaptable security rules, doing predictive analysis of threats, and executing automated reaction mechanisms. For example, in a first layer (layer 1), network traffic data is utilized to train machine learning models with the purpose of detecting anomalies. In a second layer (layer 2), adaptive security protocols can dynamically modify encryption methods and access controls in response to real-time threat assessments. In a third layer (layer 3), deep learning can be used for proactive identification of probable security vulnerabilities through predictive threat analysis. In a fourth layer (layer 4), automated reaction systems are employed that activate security measures, such as isolating affected components or commencing key renewal processes, in response to identified threats.

[0042] In examples, the quantum communication system 1 , in particular the transmitting node 2, comprises a channel monitoring module 8 coupled to the processor 7 to monitor at least one quantum channel condition and detect anomalies in real-time. The monitored channel condition can be one of the latency, the bandwidth, the error rates, and the link distance. The anomaly is detected when the monitored channel condition exceeds or is below a predefined threshold value, that is when the monitored channel condition is inside or outside a predefined acceptable range of values.

[0043] For example, the channel monitoring module 8 is configured to control the latency of the quantum communication channel 4 to attain the lowest possible delay to guarantee the ability to communicate in real-time. A target a latency can be less than 1 millisecond, which is crucial for applications that necessitate immediate data interchange, such as financial transactions or autonomous systems. Similarly, the channel monitoring module 8 can be configured to control the bandwidth in order to sustain a high level of data transmission capacity to accommodate substantial amounts of data without experiencing congestion. A target bandwidth can be at least a bandwidth capacity of 1 Tbps in order to effectively manage high volumes of data during peak periods. Additionally, the channel monitoring module 8 can be configured to control the error rates in order to achieve a minimal error rate in data transfer to uphold the integrity and dependability of communication. A target bandwidth can be an error rate that is lower than 0.01%. Also, the channel monitoring module 8 can be configured to control the link distance, i.e. the maximum physical separation between two points of the quantum communication channel 4.

[0044] In one embodiment, supplementary features can be inserted such as sophisticated Al- driven anomaly detection, and a more adaptive methodology for managing communication parameters, including latency, bandwidth, error rates, and link distance For example, the quantum communication system 1 can comprise at least one of the following:

[0045] • a channel monitoring module 8 configured to control the latency of the quantum communication channel to achieve real-time communication, with a target latency of less than 1 millisecond;

[0046] • a bandwidth management system configured to maintain a target bandwidth of at least 1 Tbps to support high data throughput;

[0047] • an error rate control system configured to minimize the error rate to lower than 0.01%, incorporating quantum error-correction and real-time anomaly detection based on Al algorithms; and

[0048] • an Al-driven link distance management system that dynamically adjusts the placement of quantum repeaters and entanglement switches to maintain communication over long distances with optimized latency, bandwidth, and error rates.

[0049] In general, a method 100 for operating the quantum communication system 1 comprises the generation of the hybrid cryptographic key by integrating the first protocol based on quantum properties used by the quantum key distribution module 5 with the second protocol based on nonquantum properties used by the cryptography module 6 and the encryption and decryption of information data using the hybrid cryptographic key. To create the hybrid cryptographic key, the method 100 can further comprise the step of generating an initial cryptographic key using the first protocol and generating the hybrid cryptographic key by using the second protocol and employing said initial cryptographic key as input data in the cryptography module 6.

[0050] In addition, a procedure for the operation of a quantum communication system can be provided that includes:

[0051] Generating an initial cryptographic key through a first quantum protocol utilizing a quantum key distribution (QKD) module 5; processing the initial cryptographic key via a second non-quantum cryptographic protocol through a cryptography module 6 to produce a hybrid cryptographic key; employing the hybrid cryptographic key for the encryption and decryption of information data; wherein the cryptography module 5 is configured to dynamically select the second cryptographic protocol in accordance with real-time system conditions.

[0052] The hybrid cryptographic key can advantageously be subjected to continuous refinement through an iterative feedback mechanism that operates between the quantum key distribution module 5 and the cryptography module 6. This process involves periodic updates to the quantum key component, which are informed by real-time monitoring of the quantum communication channel 4. Accordingly, the hybrid cryptographic key can comprise multiple segments that are allocated to multi-dimensional quantum states (quantum digits), thereby enhancing data capacity and minimizing error susceptibility.

[0053] In examples, the method 100 further comprises the step of Al- assisted monitoring at least one quantum channel condition, detecting anomalies, and modifying in real-time the first protocol and / or the second protocol to generate the hybrid cryptographic key based on the quantum channel condition and the detected anomaly.

[0054] The proposed method presents an innovative, adaptive system in which Al-assisted monitoring perpetually supervises quantum channel conditions and dynamically modifies cryptographic protocols in response to identified anomalies. This method guarantees a resilient and adaptable system capable of real-time responses to uphold secure communication, in contrast to previous systems that may depend on static protocols or human modifications.

[0055] In the following it is explained how protocols are modified upon detecting an anomaly.

[0056] When the Al-assisted monitoring system identifies an abnormality, it does not automatically substitute the existing protocols with wholly new ones.

[0057] On the other hand, the protocols may be handled according to the present examples:

[0058] 1) Modified: Real-time adjustment of settings or modes inside the existing protocol to address the anomaly while preserving cryptographic integrity. The system may incorporate further layers or backup algorithms to enhance the cryptographic process in response to the anomaly; and / or

[0059] 2) Temporarily or contextually substituted: In the event of a severe identified anomaly (e.g., substantial quantum channel degradation), the Al may transition to a fallback cryptographic protocol that is more appropriate for the altered conditions (e.g., temporarily adopting a more error-resilient classical algorithm);

[0060] By considering a concrete illustration of alteration of the channel conditions and protocol modification, an anomaly is identified as an elevation in photon loss rate.

[0061] In an unusual instance in which the channel monitoring module 8 identifies a rise in the photon loss rate within the quantum communication channel 4, arising for example from environmental interference, misalignment of optical components, or physical impediments in the communication pathway (e.g., fiber-optic or free-space channels), this abnormality may affect the precision and security of the quantum key creation process. According to a first step (Step 1), the channel monitoring module 8 continuously observes the photon loss rate within the quantum channel 4.

[0062] In typical circumstances, the loss rate remains beneath a specified threshold (e.g., under 5%). The module 8 can identify an abrupt increase in the loss rate, signifying a shift in channel conditions. The loss rate escalates for example to 15%.

[0063] In a second step (Step 2), upon identifying the abnormality, real-time modifications to the quantum key distribution (QKD) protocol can be implemented to maintain secure communication. This can be carried out by the channel monitoring module 8 itself or by the processor 7.

[0064] The channel monitoring module 8 (or the processor 7) is configured to modify the errorcorrection level in the Quantum Key Distribution process. Should the photon loss exceed anticipated levels, the system implements more robust error correction codes (e.g., incorporating greater redundancy in Shor’s or Steane’s code) to mitigate the elevated mistake rate. This stage ensures the accuracy of the initial quantum key despite photon loss.

[0065] In response to the heightened loss rate, the channel monitoring module 8 (or the processor 7) escalates the degree of privacy amplification, guaranteeing that any potential leakage of vital information due to errors remains impervious to exploitation by an attacker.

[0066] In the case of a long-distance channel, the system may augment the activation of quantum repeaters 9 to improve the signal. The Al might adjust the repeaters 9 to enhance amplification to mitigate the heightened photon loss.

[0067] To further protect the key, in a third step (Step 3), the Al system fortifies the latticebased cryptography (the second protocol) by incorporating more levels of cryptographic masking. The classical cryptography module may dynamically incorporate higher-dimensional lattices or enhance the current lattice-based encryption with hash-based signatures to maintain security, even in suboptimal quantum settings. Furthermore, the frequency of key renewal may be augmented to mitigate the potential dangers associated with the increased photon loss. For instance, rather than renewing the key every minute, the system may opt to renew it every 30 seconds until the anomaly is rectified.

[0068] Step 4: Continuous Surveillance and Feedback Mechanism

[0069] In a fourth step (Step 4), the channel monitoring module 8 continuously monotors the channel conditions as the protocols are modified. Should the photon loss diminish to acceptable thresholds (e.g., < 5%), the system may progressively return to its initial error-correction and privacy amplification standards. If photon loss increases (e.g., surpassing 20%), the more severe protocol modifications can be implemented, such as adopting a more resilient quantum key distribution method (e.g., transitioning to qudit-based transmission, which offers greater error tolerance) or even temporarily halting quantum key generation while utilizing a classical fallback mechanism.

[0070] In contrast to prior art processes that rely on reactive and manual protocol modifications, the present system 1 implements real-time, Al-driven adjustments capable of instantaneously refining both quantum and classical cryptography layers as anomalies occur. This guarantees that communication stays secure and operational without requiring manual intervention.

[0071] In this instance, both the quantum and conventional protocols are dynamically modified. The quantum protocol is enhanced with improved error correction and privacy amplification, and the classical protocol is supplemented with more encryption layers and increased key renewal frequency. This multi-layer dynamic adjustment enhances resilience, rendering the system more resilient than static quantum-classical hybrid protocols.

[0072] Should the anomaly continue, the system 1 may further hybridize by including supplementary cryptographic techniques. For example, the system 1 may transition to hybridizing qubit and qudit protocols, thereby introducing additional complexity to the encryption process.

[0073] The channel monitoring module 8 can be provided with a feedback loop having a selflearning mechanism, enabling the system 1 to not only adapt to the present anomaly but also to learn from it, thereby modifying future protocol selections based on previous data. This results in ongoing enhancement of anomaly detection and response systems.

[0074] Accordingly, it can be provided a method for the operation of a quantum communication system, which includes: monitoring the condition of a quantum channel 4 through an Al-assisted system; identifying an anomaly within the quantum channel condition; modifying an initial quantum protocol employed by a quantum key distribution module by recalibrating the error correction level and privacy amplification in response to the identified anomaly; altering a secondary cryptographic protocol grounded in non-quantum characteristics through the enhancement of classical encryption layers or the escalation of key renewal frequency as a countermeasure to the identified anomaly; and generating a hybrid cryptographic key utilizing the modified first and second protocols for the encryption and decryption of information data.

[0075] An example of the method 100 is illustrated in detail in figure 2. At step S101, the method 100 comprises the step of monitoring the conditions of the quantum channel 4. As already mentioned, the channel conditions to be monitored can be one of the latency, the bandwidth, the error rates, and the link distance. If no anomaly is detected, i.e. the channel conditions are within predefined acceptable ranges, at step S102, the hybrid cryptographic key is generated based on the integration of the first protocol and the second protocol (as mentioned above). The information data are then transmitted from a transmitting node 2 to a receiving node 3 via the communication channel 4 (S103). On the other hand, if at least one anomaly is detected, i.e. the channel conditions are outside predefined acceptable ranges, at step S104, the protocol can be changed to improve security (S105). The hybrid cryptographic key can then be generated based on the changed protocol and the information data can be transmitted using the quantum communication channel 4.

[0076] The method 100 can rely on artificial intelligence systems with the ability to identify irregularities in communication patterns, which may suggest potential security breaches.

[0077] Specifically a combination of quantum and conventional methods can be applied to discover anomalies. Quantum computing enables the efficient processing of big datasets and the execution of complex calculations, whereas classical machine learning algorithms are suitable for training and deployment purposes.

[0078] For example, deep learning models can be used such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and recurrent neural networks (RNNs), to accurately capture both temporal and spatial characteristics in communication patterns. Transformer models, renowned for their efficacy in capturing extensive interdependencies, might be exceptionally advantageous.

[0079] Also, autoencoders can be used to acquire a condensed depiction of typical communication patterns. Reconstruction error, when measured, can help identify anomalies for anomalous data points.

[0080] A quantum processor (e.g. integrated in the transmitting processor 7) can be employed to manage the very computationally demanding components of the anomaly detection algorithm, such as matrix multiplications and optimization issues.

[0081] In order to develop Al-powered security systems that can dynamically adapt to real-time threats by modifying encryption techniques and access restrictions, reinforcement learning models can be created, these models being capable of acquiring optimal security policies by engaging with the environment. These models also have the ability to adjust to emerging risks by actively investigating and utilizing various security measures.

[0082] In addition or in alternative, federated learning can be used to train artificial intelligence models on numerous dispersed devices or servers while preserving the privacy of sensitive data. This guarantees the protection of data confidentiality while utilizing a variety of datasets to enhance the model's resilience. Furthermore, Al algorithms can be used that can adapt cryptographic keys and access controls in response to real-time threat analysis. This involves implementing advanced encryption techniques and safely distributing fresh cryptographic keys in response to identified security risks. A robust framework for facilitating smooth transmission of data between quantum antennas 10 and Al systems, while assuring optimal communication and data processing, can be achieved by creating a customized protocol to oversee the transfer of quantum data, guaranteeing fast and secure communication between quantum antennas 10 and Al systems. Also, the quantum entanglement can be used to establish secure communication routes (data tunnels) that are impervious to interception and manipulation. Furthermore, artificial intelligence algorithms can be implemented on edge devices located in close proximity to the quantum antennae 10 in order to do data preprocessing, hence minimizing both latency and bandwidth consumption. Edge devices have the capability to do initial anomaly identification and data filtering before transmitting pertinent information to central Al systems for more in-depth analysis.

[0083] In a possible data flow design, the quantum antennae 10 (quantum transceivers) acquire quantum signals and convert them into a digital format, the edge devices conduct preliminary processing and filtering of the data, entanglement-based channels are utilized to securely communicate data to central Al systems, and a central Al system conducts analysis to identify anomalies and to implement adaptive security measures.

[0084] In this way, it is possible to achieve a latency lower than 1 ms, a bandwidth efficiency of around 95% and a data Integrity of 99.99%.

[0085] Artificial intelligence algorithms can furthermore be used to enhance the efficiency of crucial management procedures, such as key creation, distribution, and renewal. Artificial intelligence has the capability to forecast possible security risks and adapt the quantum key distribution parameters in real-time to guarantee uninterrupted security.

[0086] In a possible data flow design, cryptographic keys can be produced by utilizing entangled photon pairs or other quantum states, quantum channels can be used to securely disseminate cryptographic keys, whereas the artificial intelligence systems monitors the process in order to identify any deviations from the norm. The Al tool can be used to forecast the optimal timing for key renewal and streamline the process of renewing keys automatically. In this way, the cryptographic keys can be effectively stored and managed in a secure manner, utilizing artificial intelligence to optimize their utilization and minimize potential dangers and it is possible to achieve a key rate of 10 Gbps, and error rate of 0.01 % and a key renewal frequency of every minute.

[0087] As mentioned above, the present method 100 can identify any security risks and weaknesses of a quantum communication system 1. In particular, it is possible to reduce eavesdropping: with the use of quantum entanglement detection and to lower the probability of data corruption because of the implementation of quantum error correction. Denial of Service (DoS) attacks can be reduced by a traffic control powered by the Al and Man-in-the Middle (MitM) attacks can also be reduced by the use of secure quantum channels and Al anomaly detection. With this configuration, physical tampering can also be drastically reduced. By using different optimization and scaling methods to the combined system of quantum antennas 10 and Al implementation for secure communication, it is possible to increase the model accuracy of a ML algorithm of about 3% (from 92% to 95%), and to reduce the inference time from 200ms to 120ms and the training time from 100hours to 20hours. Also, the robustness score of an adversarial training can be increased from 70 to 85. Consequently, the data processing speed can increase from 500 GB / hour to 2TB / hour, the server utilization can be reduced from 80% to 50%, the deployment time from 2 hours to 15 minutes and the query response time from 500ms to 100ms.

[0088] In examples, the quantum communication system 1 further comprises at least one quantum repeater 9 placed along the quantum communication channel 4. Accordingly, the method 100 comprises the step of iterative entanglement switching by at least one quantum repeater 9 placed along the quantum communication channel 4. In this way, it is possible to ensure secure and efficient communication over extended distances.

[0089] By integrating entanglement switching and quantum repeaters 9 it is possible to facilitate secure long-distance communication among multiple parties. Quantum repeaters 9 enhance the range of quantum communication while maintaining the integrity of quantum states, thereby ensuring security across extended distances.

[0090] In order to augment the capacity of cryptographic keys, the method 100 further comprises generating the hybrid cryptographic key by employing high-dimensional quantum units of information existing in a superposition of multiple states. In this way, photons exhibiting complex configurations of orbital angular momentum can be utilized to produce quantum keys that achieve elevated data rates, thereby minimizing the error rate and enhancing the key rate.

[0091] By employing high-dimensional quantum states (qudits) rather than conventional qubits the key rate is increased and the security of the QKD system bolstered. This solution utilizes the expanded state space of qudits to enhance the efficiency of key distribution. Error correction methods can be tailored for high-dimensional quantum states to ensure both high fidelity and security.

[0092] Although a variety of techniques and examples of such techniques have been described herein, these are provided by way of example only and many variations and modifications on such examples will be apparent to the skilled person and fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention, which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A quantum communication system (1) comprising: a transmitting node (2) for encrypting and transmitting encrypted information data; a receiving node (3) for receiving and decrypting the encrypted information data; and a quantum communication channel (4) coupling the transmitting node (2) to the receiving node (3) for transferring the encrypted information data, wherein the system (1) comprises a quantum key distribution module (5) using a first protocol based on quantum properties, a cryptography module (6) using a second protocol based on nonquantum properties, and a processor (7) coupled to the quantum key distribution module (5) and the cryptography module (6) for integrating the first protocol and the second protocol to generate a single hybrid cryptographic key used in a unified encryption and decryption operation, wherein the information data are encrypted and decrypted using the single hybrid cryptographic key.

2. The quantum communication system (1) according to claim 1 , further comprising at least one quantum transceiver (10), each quantum transceiver (10) comprising at least a portion made of superconductive materials, at least a portion made of a two-dimensional material like graphene, and at least a portion made of metal oxides.

3. The quantum communication system (1) according to claim 2, wherein each quantum transceiver (10) comprises an entangled photon source (11) and a quantum detector (12), and is configured to dynamically adjust the direction and focus of transmission to perform beam steering based on environmental conditions and communication needs.

4. The quantum communication system (1) according to claim 1 , further comprising a channel monitoring module (8) coupled to the processor (7), the processor (7) including a machine learning model trained to monitor at least one quantum channel condition, detect anomalies in real-time, and modify the cryptographic protocol in response to the detected anomalies.

5. The quantum communication system (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the quantum communication channel (4) has a multi-channel architecture comprising at least one of a free- space optical, a fiber optic, and a satellite communication technology, and the system is configured to operate with a federated learning model for distributed threat detection.

6. A method for operating a quantum communication system (1) including a transmitting node (2), a receiving node (3), and a quantum communication channel (4) coupling thetransmitting node (2) to the receiving node (3) for transferring encrypted information data, the method comprising: generating a single hybrid cryptographic key by integrating a first protocol based on quantum properties used by a quantum key distribution module (5) with a second protocol based on nonquantum properties used by a cryptography module (6); and encrypting and decrypting information data using the single hybrid cryptographic key in a unified encryption and decryption operation.

7. The method according to claim 6, comprising the step of generating an initial cryptographic key using the first protocol and generating the hybrid cryptographic key by using the second protocol, wherein the initial quantum key is used as an input parameter in the cryptography module (6).

8. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the step of Al-assisted monitoring of at least one quantum channel condition, detecting anomalies using a trained machine learning model, and modifying the cryptographic protocol in real-time based on the quantum channel condition and the detected anomaly, including switching between QKD and non-quantum encryption protocols.

9. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the step of iterative entanglement switching by at least one quantum repeater (9) placed along the quantum communication channel (4).

10. The method according to claim 6, wherein the hybrid cryptographic key includes at least one high-dimensional quantum unit representing a qudit state existing in a superposition of multiple states.

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