The PIONIER-Q project aims to provide a quantum key distribution infrastructure and a quantum communication network using the existing fibre infrastructure of the PIONIER network. Encryptors and quantum key distribution (QKD) devices will be installed at selected points in the network. QKD devices will send a symmetric encryption key to encryptors at both locations via dedicated optical fibres. This key will change its form cyclically and will be used to encrypt data transmitted between sites that send their data over a standard transmission channel. The quantum encryption key is sent over a quantum channel, so according to the principles of quantum mechanics, it will not be possible to intercept information sent over such a channel. Eavesdropping on the quantum transmission will damage the key, rendering it unusable, and the supervisory layer will report such an event. The QKD quantum key technology will add an extra layer of security to the encryptors, dramatically increasing the security of transmitted data.
