Harvard's Innovative Quantum Network Prevents Unauthorized Access

Relying on the principles of uncertainty underlying quantum mechanics, Harvard researchers recently established the first experimental secure network that, when perfected, should make it impossible for hackers to gain unauthorized access to documents shared electronically. . . . Relying on the principles of uncertainty underlying quantum mechanics, Harvard researchers recently established the first experimental secure network that, when perfected, should make it impossible for hackers to gain unauthorized access to documents shared electronically.

The system, called a quantum network, could not be intercepted without alerting the intended recipient of an electronic message, project researcher John M. Myers said.

McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics Tai T. Wu, the head of the Harvard lab experimenting with the quantum code key system, was on vacation and could not be reached for comment.

The link for this article located at Harvard Crimson is no longer available.