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A data encryption system with a bandwidth of 200 Gb/s, secured by quantum cryptography at BT's Global Research and Development hub near Ipswich. Quantum cryptography can be used to distribute the secret digital keys important for protecting personal data. Its security works by encoding each bit of the digital key upon a single photon (particle of light). If a hacker intercepts the single photons, they will unavoidably disturb their encoding in a way that can be detected. This allows eavesdropping on the network to be directly monitored.

Dr Andrew Shields, assistant managing director, Toshiba Research Europe, commented: "We have demonstrated that quantum key distribution (QKD) can be combined with the 100 Gb/s data format, which is the emerging standard for transmission on optical fibres. This will greatly reduce the cost of securing networks using QKD, as it removes the need for dedicated dark fibre to send the quantum signals."