Using an on-chip laser source and integrated photonics to produce random numbers, Quantum Dice is collaborating with SCI Semiconductor to advance digital security systems.
University of Oxford spin-out Quantum Dice uses photonics R&D to develop quantum random number generator (QRNG) technology for commercial products, and SCI Semiconductors is a Cambridge-based developer of high-integrity silicon devices and a founder member of the CHERI Alliance.
Having set up a memorandum of understanding (MoU), the two organisations are now working together to develop joint solutions to develop advanced, cross-industry security systems in high-integrity sectors such as defence, telecommunications, medical and critical infrastructure.
Quantum Dice’s DISC protocol
Quantum Dice’s patented DISCTM (Device-Independent Secure Cryptography) protocol provides continuous quantum assurance for encryption security, enabling the real-time verification of encryption keys, offering improved protection against digital attacks and ensuring long-term security.
By integrating the quantum-backed technology with SCI Semiconductor’s high-integrity silicon design solutions, including CHERI (Capability Hardware Enhanced RISC Instructions), the collaboration is expected to deliver highly secure semiconductor solutions.
The importance of digital workplace security
“The incredible exponential advancement of semiconductor technology is constantly making our lives more convenient, but just as with any technological revolution, it has its hidden risks,” said Dr. Ramy Shelbaya, CEO and co-founder of Quantum Dice. “We are really excited to be working with SCI Semiconductor to take this conversation to the next level and bring quantum-backed, memory-safe security solutions to the market.”
At the core of Quantum Dice’s QRNG technology and of the collaboration, is the DISCTM protocol which ensures the technology’s live entropy measurement, providing users with the ability to verify the security level of encryption keys in real time.
In today’s cybersecurity environment, where the rise of connected devices and autonomous systems makes securing digital infrastructures more challenging than ever, this capability for secure, real-time verification is vital.
A match made in Oxbridge
Set to make significant strides across the cybersecurity landscape by addressing the challenges of securing critical systems in an increasingly complex digital world, the partnership between Oxford’s Quantum Dice and Cambridge’s SCI Semiconductor will be officially announced at the IoT Security Foundation (IoTSF)’s Annual Conference on 23 October, 2024, where the two developers will showcase the technology.
“The partnership between SCI and Quantum Dice is very exciting,” agreed SCI Semiconductor Chief Executive, Haydn Povey. “It enables the development of high-integrity digital systems for next-generation critical infrastructure. With the integration of high-grade quantum entropy, we believe the industry now stands on the edge of long-term security resolutions for a raft of operational technologies.”
By combining the strengths of quantum cryptography and advanced silicon technology, the partnership positions itself at the forefront of future-ready security solutions such as “net-zero smart energy distribution and consumption, next-gen defence applications and future autonomous automotive platforms,” said Povey.
