CASE STUDYEnhancing security through Quantum Random Number Generation
HOWIS SECURITY ENHANCED THROUGH QUANTUM RANDOM NUMBER GENERATION
Random numbers are essential for modern cybersecurity. They are used to generate encryption keys, secure online transactions, protect digital identities, and support a wide range of scientific simulations. Traditionally, these numbers have been produced using conventional random number generators, which rely on mathematical algorithms.
Advances in technology have led to the development of Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs), devices that use the inherent unpredictability of quantum phenomena to produce truly unpredictable random numbers. This enhanced level of randomness can strengthen security systems and improve the reliability of applications that depend on genuinely random data.
Traditional algorithms for generating random numbers can be highly effective. However, by definition, all classical random number generation is deterministic, i.e. underpinned by mathematical equations, meaning they can be predictable, thus leaving systems potentially vulnerable.
Quantum Random Number Generators provide an infinitely stronger foundation for cryptographic systems. They use entropy, the fundamental unpredictability found in the subatomic world, meaning they are truly random, with no risk of the same random sequence being (re-)produced by identically manufactured devices.
Quantum Random Number Generation is already being incorporated into security products, communication systems (e.g. VPNs and internet traffic) and cryptographic infrastructure. The technology can be used to generate encryption keys for applications such as financial transactions, risk modelling, digital certificates and secure identity management. Government agencies, defence organisations and operators of critical national infrastructure are therefore exploring QRNG to strengthen cybersecurity and reduce vulnerabilities.
Additionally, because QRNG generates truly unpredictable random outputs, the technology can improve the accuracy of complex scientific simulations that rely on large volumes of random data (for example climate modelling or to randomly allocate patients to different clinical trial groups for unbiased testing ).
Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, while digital systems are increasingly interconnected. Quantum Random Number Generation provides a trusted source of truly unpredictable numbers that can strengthen security today and help protect future digital infrastructure against emerging threats.
- Quantum-secure encryption key generation
- Secure online banking and e-commerce
- Critical infrastructure cybersecurity
- Digital identity and authentication systems
- Scientific simulations and modelling
RESEARCH
Researchers worldwide are driving progress in this area with UK universities and industry playing an important role through the EPSRC-funded IQN and QCi3 Hubs.
