Capgemini and Instituto de Telecomunicações partner to fortify quantum cybersecurity

Capgemini and Instituto de Telecomunicações (IT) have launched a transformative partnership to develop quantum-safe technologies aimed at redefining cybersecurity in the digital age. This collaboration, based in Portugal, will explore quantum cryptography and its revolutionary potential to counter emerging cyber threats, particularly in an era where traditional encryption may soon be rendered obsolete by quantum computing.

What makes quantum cryptography the future of data security?

As the reliance on digital communication grows, so does the sophistication of cyberattacks. Quantum cryptography, a field leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, provides unparalleled protection by enabling encryption methods immune to conventional and quantum-based attacks. This innovation is critical as quantum computers evolve, potentially rendering current encryption standards vulnerable.

Capgemini and IT’s joint efforts will address this challenge by advancing encryption protocols that safeguard sensitive communications. These protocols are designed to provide unmatched resilience, laying the foundation for a quantum-safe environment where businesses, governments, and individuals can communicate securely.

How will Capgemini and IT collaborate on quantum advancements?

Capgemini brings its global expertise in quantum research through its dedicated Quantum Lab, which includes access to advanced hardware, a network of international quantum specialists, and a commitment to exploring quantum applications. This initiative aligns seamlessly with IT’s longstanding role as a leader in Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) research.

Instituto de Telecomunicações operates the Quantum Photonics Laboratory (QuLab), a cutting-edge research hub specialising in quantum optical technologies, cryptography, and sensing. By combining QuLab’s expertise with Capgemini’s resources, the partnership aims to accelerate the development and deployment of quantum technologies.

João Neves, Head of Technology and Innovation at Capgemini Engineering in Portugal, stated, “Our collaboration with Instituto de Telecomunicações reinforces Capgemini’s commitment to creating quantum-safe environments for the future. Together, we are harnessing the power of quantum technology to address evolving cybersecurity challenges.”

What role does quantum technology play in cybersecurity innovation?

Quantum technology’s potential to disrupt existing paradigms is profound. Current encryption methods, such as RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), rely on the computational difficulty of factoring large numbers or solving complex mathematical problems. Quantum computers, however, could perform these calculations exponentially faster, jeopardising today’s secure communications.

This partnership will focus on post-quantum cryptography—developing algorithms resistant to both classical and quantum attacks. By advancing these systems, Capgemini and Instituto de Telecomunicações aim to establish global standards for secure data exchange, ensuring long-term protection against even the most sophisticated cyber threats.

Professor Emmanuel Zambrini Cruzeiro, who leads QuLab at Instituto de Telecomunicações, highlighted the significance of bridging theory and application. “In rapidly evolving fields like quantum cryptography, combining fundamental scientific understanding with applied research is essential. This partnership provides the ideal platform to transform groundbreaking discoveries into practical solutions.”

What sets Instituto de Telecomunicações apart in ICT research?

For over 30 years, Instituto de Telecomunicações has been at the forefront of ICT innovation. As a private, non-profit R&D organisation, Instituto de Telecomunicações collaborates with universities, government agencies, and industry leaders to drive impactful research.

Instituto de Telecomunicações’ track record includes nearly 2,500 national projects and 800 international initiatives, with its community of 900 researchers mentoring over 3,000 MSc and 600 PhD graduates. Its contributions to telecommunications, quantum technologies, and cybersecurity have positioned it as a key player in shaping the future of digital communication.

Why is the partnership a game-changer for cybersecurity?

The collaboration between Capgemini and Instituto de Telecomunicações signals a shift towards proactive cybersecurity strategies. With quantum technologies poised to become mainstream, this partnership equips industries with tools to stay ahead of potential threats. From secure government communications to protecting financial transactions, the applications of quantum-safe encryption are vast.

By fostering a synergy between Capgemini’s global innovation network and Instituto de Telecomunicações’ deep research expertise, the partnership offers a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges posed by quantum computing.

What are the broader implications for the future of cybersecurity?

As quantum computing transitions from theoretical to practical applications, the urgency for quantum-safe systems will only grow. This partnership serves as a blueprint for collaboration between industry and academia, highlighting the importance of innovation and adaptability in securing the digital ecosystem.

The advancements achieved through this initiative are expected to influence global cybersecurity standards, ensuring that organisations can operate securely in a quantum-driven world.