From: Brett Paatsch (paatschb@optusnet.com.au)
Date: Sat Jun 21 2003 - 14:14:13 MDT
I'm no encryption expert but since reading Simon Singh's
The Code Book back in 1999 I've had the impression that
there is a race on between the developers of quantum
computers that could crack existing codes and the development
of quantum encryption which could produce uncrackable
codes even given quantum computers. I'm not sure what the
state of the art is - the following article seems to gives some hints.
But given recent discussions about privacy/secrecy and natural
concerns about the uses of technology by terrorists I wonder
what other peoples views would be on the following.
If it was possible to put quantum encryption affordably on a
laptop yet effectively everyone would have it would that be a
net good?
My feeling is that at this stage in evolution I probably say yes
because I see it as unhealthy for govts to have quantum
computers and citizens not to have some privacy. I am also
aware good encryption might be a prerequisite for the modular
development of certain legitimate and extropic technologies
that individual governments might prefer not be developed
except by their own defence departments.
Privacy for all. Or privacy for governments only? Thoughts?
-------------
Hackers beware: quantum encryption is coming
http://www.commsdesign.com/news/tech_beat/OEG20021111S0036
"NEW YORK - Quantum encryption pioneers promise
to put the world's first uncrackably secure networks online
by early 2003. Based on the quantum properties of photons,
quantum encryption guarantees absolutely secure optical
communications.
Three independent experiments recently have demonstrated
such systems. Geneva-based id Quantique SA encoded a
secure transmission on a 70-kilometer fiber-optic link in
Europe; MajiQ Technologies Inc., here, used a 30-km link;
and researchers at Northwestern University (Evanston, Ill.)
demonstrated a 250-Mbit/second quantum encrypted
transmission over a short link.
"Our quantum random-number generator and our single-
photon detector module are available now and are in use by
several customers around the world," said Gregoire Ribordy,
a manager at id Quantique. A beta version of a third product,
a quantum-key distribution system, "has been fully tested, and
we are in advanced discussions with several potential launch
customers," he added.
Securing the Internet
For its part, MagiQ says that its Navajo system is currently at
the alpha stage and promises real beta sites on selected
campuses in the United States in the first quarter. Both
companies are also talking about secure through-the-air
communications with satellites."
etc
--- - Brett Paatsch
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.1.5 : Sat Jun 21 2003 - 14:24:37 MDT