Terrestrial Quantum Networks

Your Partner

We have a strong network of institutions and organizations in the field and work together with industry partners on advanced solutions for quantum communication. 

Research and development
As your partner, we build up on extensive research and development work to bring new technologies and methods in the field of quantum communication to application. Not only do we push the limits by conducting experiments under real-world conditions, but we also develop prototypes and provide thorough evaluation of solutions to ensure that we meet the high requirements of our customers. 

Consulting and expertise
As your partner, we offer comprehensive consulting services and in-depth technical expertise in quantum technologies. Our services include a thorough evaluation of existing technologies, a precise analysis of your specific requirements, and system development that is tailored to your application goals. We not only support you with integration into your system landscape, but also advise you on issues relating to the certification and standardization of quantum communication systems.

Customization and integration
We are specialized in customizing our systems to meet our customers' needs, from source specifications to network-optimized complete systems and tailored solutions. Our systems can be used in complex multi-user networks utilizing the capability of our source for spectral multiplexing. 

Prototype development
Our goal is to develop robust systems to operate in real-world environments. We work with you to test and continuously improve the necessary system requirements in order to meet your individual customer needs.

Technology transfer
As a committed research and development partner, we support our partners in transferring research results into practice. In addition to technology development, this also includes training employees in the form of customized technical workshops and webinars.

Our Main Services and Competencies

Quantum Key Distribution

Quantum key distribution enables secure communication in the age of quantum computers. While established key exchange methods are vulnerable to attacks and new algorithm-based solutions are being implemented, quantum key distribution offers predictable security. Hybridization of quantum key distribution with post-quantum cryptography enables increased security, particularly for data exchange that must remain secret in the long term.

Polarization compensation

Development of modules for (fiber-based) polarization compensation, including software for full automation. Feedback interface can be provided via various detection parameters, such as coincidence matrix or quantum bit error rate. Polarization compensation is essential, particularly in optical fiber networks, and is therefore being continuously improved.

Entangled photon pair sources

Research focuses on the development of robust and field-ready entangled photon pair sources and their application in future-oriented fields.

The future is a quantum internet, where entanglement distribution will enable novel applications. The full potential is not yet foreseeable, just as the internet in its infancy could not have predicted its current influence. Important applications in a quantum internet that are already foreseeable today include quantum communication beyond quantum key distribution, the networking of quantum computers, blind quantum computing, and distributed quantum sensor technology.

Characterization of quantum sources

We offer the service to characterize single-photon and entangled photon pair sources and analyze their output states. In addition to measuring optical parameters such as emission rate, wavelength, heralding, and visibility, state tomography can also be performed.

Markets and Application for Quantum Communication Systems

Our quantum communication systems offer a versatile range of applications and are tailored towards terrestrial networks. The innovative system solutions by Fraunhofer IOF are suitable for

• IT security in the context of …
  • federal communication and data transfer and 
  • the private sector.
• Quantum internet
  • Quantum networks for entanglement distribution 
  • Interconnection of quantum computer 
  • Distributed quantum sensing
• And many more. 

Your Benefits in Working with Us

By working with us, you will benefit from numerous advantages in the development of quantum communication systems:

• Expertise and experience:
  Our team has extensive knowledge of quantum technologies and photonics. This expertise enables us to develop innovative solutions that meet your specific requirements.


• Innovative technologies:
  We use state-of-the-art technologies and methods to implement advanced systems. In doing so, we already consider the potential of future quantum networks.


• Customized solutions:
  We offer tailored approaches that are precisely addressing your needs. From concept development to the finished prototype, we accompany you throughout the entire process.

• Quality and reliability:
  Through thorough evaluations and testing under real-world conditions, we ensure that our solutions meet the highest quality standards.


• Partnership-based cooperation:
  As your partner, we value close and transparent communication. Together, we identify challenges and find the best ways to overcome them.

With us at your side, you secure a lead in quantum technology for communication and can rely on a partner who understands your goals and successfully turns them into reality.

Technical Equipment and Testbeds for Quantum Communication

We offer various systems and components for testing photonic quantum systems. Our testbeds in particular are available to both industry and institutes. Please feel free to get in touch!

• Complete systems for quantum key distribution:
  Complete systems for quantum key distribution are available for both 810 nm and 1550 nm.


• Single-photon detectors:
  Various single-photon detector systems are available, ranging from SPADs to SNSPDs and from VIS to NIR. Current developments also enable photon number resolved detection.


• Polarization compensation module:
  Modules for polarization compensation are available for application in both free-space and fiber links. 


• Fiber optic tesbed:
  An optical fiber pair with a total length of 76 km is available between Jena and Erfurt. These are dark fibers that are completely decoupled from the classic network and can therefore be used independently.


• Free-space optical testbed:
  A free-space link spanning 1.7 km stretches across the rooftops of Jena. Various tests can be carried out here using the free-space interfaces. Connected systems allow the signals to be forwarded to the local optical fiber network, which was set up specifically for testing purposes.