As networks evolve toward 6G, the need increases for the integration of advanced technologies that not only provide security but also deliver flexibility, automation, and openness. The 6G-OPENSEC-KEYS project is at the forefront of this transformation, embracing a vendor-agnostic approach to quantum network management through TeraFlowSDN, a next-generation SDN controller.
An Open and Scalable Quantum Ecosystem
The key to the project lies in integrating quantum key distribution (QKD) technologies within an open and programmable network architecture. Thanks to compliance with the ETSI GS QKD 015 standard, the system enables interoperability between multiple QKD device manufacturers, avoiding vendor lock-in and facilitating the evolution of open, hybrid networks.
This approach is crucial to realizing a multi-vendor ecosystem, where operators and providers can deploy, configure, and manage quantum nodes without depending on proprietary solutions.
Innovations from the 6G-OPENSEC-KEYS Project
The consortium, comprising Optare Solutions, CTTC, LuxQuanta, and Telefónica, has developed a solution based on the TeraFlowSDN controller, already adapted for optical networks and now extended to quantum topologies.
TeraFlowSDN + ETSI 015 = Vendor Neutrality
- Compatible with any QKD node implementing ETSI GS QKD 015.
- Standardized discovery, configuration, and monitoring of quantum devices and links.
- Supports coexistence of real (LuxQuanta) and simulated (mocks) nodes within the same platform.
Quantum Driver and Tools
- The QKDDriver2 component and the Tools2.py module manage communication with QKD nodes via standardized REST APIs.
- From the controller, physical parameters such as wavelength or attenuation can be modified, and active QKD applications are synchronized.
- All this is accessible visually via the TeraFlowSDN WebUI.
Quantum Service Management
- Creation of physical services between real nodes and virtual ones (mocks).
- Automatic registration of internal and external applications for key exchanges.
- Unified interface to control topology, links, devices, and applications.
Applications and the Open Future of the Project
The ability to integrate multiple vendors under the same quantum SDN architecture paves the way for a realistic, flexible, and scalable deployment of QKD networks in the 6G context.
- Operators: Will be able to progressively introduce QKD nodes from different manufacturers without having to overhaul their infrastructure.
- Vendors: Will be able to validate the compatibility of their devices with an open, standardized orchestrator.
- Integrators: Will have access to tools to automate deployments, monitor configurations, and scale secure networks.
The system has already been validated with LuxQuanta nodes in real-world environments and is ready to incorporate new vendors and functionalities in future versions of the controller.
Commitment to a European Quantum Ecosystem
The 6G-OPENSEC-KEYS project not only advances the field of quantum security but also lays the groundwork for an interoperable infrastructure, ready to embrace multiple technologies and adapt to the challenges of 6G.
Acknowledgments:
The 6G-OPENSEC–KEYS project (TSI-063000-2021-61) is funded by the Spanish Ministry for Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation and the European Union through the NextGenerationEU program, under the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan and the Recovery and Resilience Facility.
