About
Quantum computing is an emerging technology that uses principles of quantum physics to solve problems too complex for classical computers. Quantum computers can unlock unprecedented advancements in raw computing power, simulation, and optimisation that will potentially revolutionise industries and spur innovation.
However, this also means that quantum computers may introduce new security risks as they can break many encryption algorithms we rely on today. Singapore needs to be ready to adopt quantum-safe technologies to strengthen our digital infrastructure and build resistance against quantum attacks, as we strive towards a quantum-safe Singapore.
Southeast Asia’s first quantum-safe network infrastructure
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Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Heng Swee Keat at ATxSG 2023's ATxSummit Social, announcing the launch of the NQSN+, which aims to deliver islandwide quantum-safe communications.
National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+) was launched by Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Heng Swee Keat, at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2023. The NQSN+ is part of Singapore’s Digital Connectivity Blueprint, which outlines the next bound of Singapore’s digital connectivity to 2030. Beyond Singapore’s strategic priorities, the NQSN+ is one of the early moves made by the IMDA to enhance the resilience and security of businesses in Singapore’s digital economy.
Building on more than 10 years of quantum research efforts from the Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT), hosted by the National University of Singapore, the National Quantum-Safe Network (NQSN) was launched in 2022 to conduct nationwide trials of quantum-safe communications technologies to enhance network security. Collaborating with universities, companies and government agencies, NQSN has demonstrated the technical feasibility of deploying quantum-safe technologies, such as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), to protect against quantum computing risks.
Following the successful NQSN testbed trials, IMDA’s NQSN+ will support network operators to deploy quantum-safe networks nationwide, granting businesses easy access to quantum-safe solutions that safeguard their critical data. The NQSN+ will start with two network operators, Singtel and SPTel, together with SpeQtral. Each will build a nationwide, interoperable quantum-safe network that can serve all businesses. Businesses can work with NQSN+ operators to integrate quantum-safe solutions such as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and be secure in the quantum age.
NQSN+ will work towards integration with quantum-ready networks from like-minded countries, allowing enterprises to deploy quantum-safe solutions across global markets.
Supporting the standardisation of quantum security technologies
As part of Singapore’s efforts to push the next bound of interoperable quantum-safe networks, IMDA together with the CQT-NQSN team, are co-leading efforts with Japan to establish a QKD protocol framework at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). We have also worked with the industry to release a QKD reference specification (1.22MB), which guides telcos and users keen to deploy QKD-based networks in Singapore. Singapore will continue supporting international standardisation efforts to realise an interoperable, quantum-secure global communications network.
Moving towards a quantum-safe Singapore in 10 years
While Singapore steadily invests in and pilots new quantum technologies, our nation’s key digital infrastructure must remain secure. To do so, we will advance Critical Information Infrastructures (CII) in key sectors with quantum-safe solutions so that organisations can remain resilient and secure. Supported with strong research capabilities and a pervasive nationwide fibre network, Singapore is well-positioned to use quantum technology to further enhance network security for CIIs and enterprises handling sensitive data.
NQSN+ operators
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Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) |
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SPTel SpeQtral |
Contact us
Companies keen to learn more about NQSN+ and Singapore’s efforts in shaping a quantum-safe future can write to us at info@imda.gov.sg.
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