Heriot-Watt to lead development of UK’s ‘near-unhackable’ quantum internet

The Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub is one of five hubs announced by the UK government as part of a £160m investment.

Quantum technology can harness the unique properties of atoms and subatomic particles to achieve functionalities that are not possible with existing, conventional technologies. The researchers said that while complex in nature, the applications of quantum technology are set to ‘revolutionise’ many aspects of our daily lives.

The IQN Hub will focus on creating large-scale quantum networks capable of distributing quantum entanglement, which could lead to the development of a secure communications network and therefore an internet free from hacking issues, according to the researchers.

In an era where cybercrime costs the UK an estimated £27bn annually, the quantum internet promises unprecedented levels of security. It could also drive advancements in AI, drug discovery and environmental monitoring.

“Imagine an internet that uses the principles of quantum physics to secure data. Unlike our current systems, which can be cracked given enough time and computing power, quantum encryption creates keys that are essentially unbreakable. It's like having a lock that changes every time someone tries to pick it,” Professor Gerald Buller, from Heriot-Watt and who will lead the IQN Hub, said in a statement.