A highlight of the recent QCIDays Athens 2025 event was a ground-breaking live demonstration of a quantum-secure videoconference, jointly prepared by the national quantum communication infrastructure projects HellasQCI (Greece), QCI-CAT (Austria), and EuroQCI Spain. This live demo vividly illustrated the practical potential of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies in securing real-time digital communication across borders.
The live demonstration stood out as a tangible example of how quantum technologies are transitioning from research labs to operational networks.
Demonstration Details
The quantum-secure videoconference connected three independent quantum networks operated by the national projects of Greece, Austria, and Spain. Using state-of-the-art QKD systems, the demonstration established cryptographically secure keys between nodes in each country, enabling encrypted video communication protected against any future quantum computer attacks.
This multi-vendor, multi-domain setup showcased cross-border interoperability, a critical milestone for EuroQCI’s vision of a continent-wide quantum-secure network. Attendees witnessed how quantum encryption can safeguard sensitive data in real time, highlighting the readiness of quantum communication technologies for industrial deployment.
Significance for EuroQCI and Beyond
The live demo underscored the collaborative spirit among EuroQCI National Infrastructure projects and their commitment to building a secure digital future for Europe. It demonstrated the feasibility of integrating diverse quantum systems across national boundaries, a key step toward the large-scale deployment of quantum communication networks.
Beyond the technical achievement, the demo sparked lively discussions on industrial scaling, standardization, and user adoption during QCIDays sessions. It also illustrated the practical benefits of quantum technologies for governments, industries, and end-users seeking future-proof cybersecurity solutions.
Looking Ahead
As the first phase of EuroQCI approaches completion, demonstrations like this set the stage for expanding quantum networks across Europe, including integration with satellite links and post-quantum cryptographic methods. The collaboration between HellasQCI, QCI-CAT, and EuroQCI Spain serves as a blueprint for other national projects, including QCIHungary, which is actively developing its own quantum communication infrastructure.
Stay tuned for further updates and technical insights on the ongoing evolution of Europe’s quantum communication landscape.
