ISRO Developing Major Initiative to Ensure India’s Computing Future

In an age where spyware like Pegasus can infect almost any device or software, data breaches are a major concern. To secure the future of computing in the country, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is working on a new project – Satellite-based quantum communication technology.

What makes quantum communication secure against hacking?

Quantum communication uses encryption known as quantum encryption, which is impenetrable to hackers. This form of encryption improves end-to-end security and notifies users if their information is compromised.

In fact, the Indian Space Agency recently showcased its project, a satellite-based quantum communication technology, at the Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) 2023. A representative of ISRO’s IMC team emphasized the importance of securing regular communications to ReturnByte.com. with complex codes.

According to the expert, when efficient quantum computers become more common, the old protection methods may not work. To meet this challenge, the Indian Space Agency is using a new technology called quantum key distribution. “We need a system that can resist quantum computers, so we introduce quantum key distribution.”

This method generates highly secure and random secret codes. With these codes, regular communication can be made exceptionally secure, so no one can hack it.

In fact, ISRO, last month, successfully demonstrated free-space quantum communication at a distance of 300 meters. The presentation included a real-time video conference using signals encrypted with a quantum key.

This is a significant milestone for the absolutely secure data transmission of satellites using quantum technologies.

According to ISRO, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology supports Quantum Communication technology, which ensures absolute data security according to the principles of quantum mechanics, which is not possible with traditional encryption systems.

“Traditional cryptosystems used for data encryption are based on the complexity of mathematical algorithms, while the security offered by quantum communication is based on the laws of physics. Therefore, quantum cryptography is considered ‘future-proof’ because no future development in computing power can break a quantum cryptosystem,” ISRO explained.