Dublin City Council takes part in quantum-secure comms test

IrelandQCI is developing a quantum key distribution (QKD) infrastructure along a major backbone network connecting Dublin to Cork via Waterford. This will integrate quantum technologies with existing classical fibre systems to future-proof Ireland’s communications networks against cyber threats.

Quantum-secure communications has the potential to ensure long-term resilience across critical public services, including Government, healthcare, finance, energy, and emergency response.

This first Government use case involved collaborating with the IrelandQCI partners including Asiera, which deployed quantum communication systems on the existing Dublin City Council municipal fibre network.

The test involved creating a highly secure connection between two strategic Dublin City Council locations with Asiera. During the trial, the IrelandQCI consortium of partners successfully tested quantum-based security technology in a real operational environment, showing that it works reliably under everyday conditions.

“Quantum-secure communications will be critical to protecting public services in the years ahead, and this milestone shows how research and innovation can directly strengthen national and local digital resilience”

The demo also tested next-gen encryption methods designed to remain secure even in the age of quantum computers. By combining quantum security with advanced classical encryption, the system provides multiple layers of protection, helping to keep sensitive information safe as it travels across the network, from local systems through to wider digital services.

Professor Dan Kilper, director, Connect Centre, Trinity, said: “This work highlights the importance of coordinated research, industry, and public sector engagement in building secure future communications systems. Quantum-secure communications will be critical to protecting public services in the years ahead, and this milestone shows how research and innovation can directly strengthen national and local digital resilience.”

Dr Deirdre Kilbane, IrelandQCI project lead and director of research at Walton Institute, South East Technological University, recognised the combined efforts it took to achieve the successful demonstration, adding: ‘’This is an exciting advancement for the IrelandQCI project, which has the ultimate aim of deploying a long-range quantum communication network between Dublin and Waterford, and on to Cork.

“Today’s demonstration at Dublin City Council shows another important aspect of the project which is end-user engagement with government and industry. Our consortium partners, comprised of several national universities and industry partners ESB Telecoms and Asiera, are delighted to share their expertise as we work towards securing and encrypting communication networks across Ireland.  We intend to work with further government and industry end users, bringing the benefits of quantum communication technologies to wider Irish society.’’