QAssure

New security technologies based on quantum physics require work to ensure consistency and quality of the technology. The aim of this project is to establish a methodology for the assurance of quantum systems. Assurance enables trust in the performance of the technology, and ensures that technology meets requirements. Assurance is therefore essential when technology is used in critical systems, such as within health, the financial sector, or any service that people rely on. Assurance of the reliability and security of new computing and network technologies is an established area of research and expertise, but it needs to be updated to support the new quantum technologies. This requires building understanding between the cybersecurity sector, and the technologists and quantum cryptography researchers involved in building these new solutions.

This initiative unites UK Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) vendors Toshiba Research Europe and KETS Quantum, telecom operators (BT), National Physical Laboratory (NPL) experts specialising in quantum device testing and assurance, as well as traditional cybersecurity experts. Additionally, it draws upon the system engineering proficiency from the University of Loughborough, along with the expertise in modelling and verifying quantum and hybrid systems from NodeQ, Kings College London and Quentangle. End user HSBC provides insights into the real world cybersecurity requirements of a large financial organisation. Innovative aspects include trialling the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to build confidence in the models (such as models of attack), and comparing the insights with those obtained from a traditional review of the models by an expert team. This collaborative effort aims to seamlessly integrate quantum cryptography with practical cybersecurity, establishing a robust assurance framework tailored for UK QKD systems, in alignment with modern methods of assurance.