First Quantum Cryptographic Data Network

jdubs writes to tell us ScienceDaily is reporting that scientists at Northwestern University and BBN Technologies have demonstrated the first truly quantum cryptographic data network. From the article: "Kumar's research team recently demonstrated a new way of encrypting data that relies on both traditional algorithms and on physical principles. This QDE method, called AlphaEta, makes use of the inherent and irreducible quantum noise in laser light to enhance the security of the system and makes eavesdropping much more difficult. Unlike most other physical encryption methods, AlphaEta maintains performance on par with traditional optical communications links and is compatible with standard fiber optical networks."

Re:Will we know?

[SanityInAnarchy]

As far as I know, you usually need asymmetric encryption to reasonably set up temporary symmetric encryption. And so many systems today are based on RSA, which is what I'm talking about. Basically, it makes SSH no more secure than Telnet.

Solution without a problem

[suv4x4]

Is modern digital cryptography so easily broken anyway? No.

I don't mind research on quantum tunnels and so on regarding cryptography, but I really wonder: who ever needed it.

BTW, anyone need a noisy stupid mechanical donkey? Oh yea the military do. I swear this is where this is going as well. No general wants someone to sniff his porn traffic.

Re:Will we know?

[maxwell demon]

An existing large enough quantum computer would make ssh much less secure, but as long as not everyone can afford his own quantum computer, it would still be magnitudes more secure than telnet. It's still a difference if e.g. your encrypted banking password can be read by the government, or if it can be read by anyone having access to a computer in between.