Quantum Computing Inc. and Ciena Unveil Quantum-Secured Communications at OFC 2026 — Quantum Computing Inc.

Event summary

Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) and Ciena demonstrated a quantum-secured communications solution at OFC 2026, integrating QKD, quantum authentication, classical authentication, and AES-256-GCM optical encryption.
The solution combines QCi's time-frequency entanglement-based QKD and quantum identity authentication with Ciena's Waveserver platform, supporting up to 1.6 Tb/s encryption and NIST-certified post-quantum cryptography algorithms.
QCi's system features Quantum Zero Knowledge Proof (QZEK-P), a proprietary technology recognized with the 2023 Edison Patent Award.
QCi recently acquired Luminar Semiconductor, Inc. in February 2026, accelerating its technology roadmap and expanding its product portfolio.

The big picture

The demonstration highlights the growing urgency for quantum-safe communications as businesses and network operators face increasing cybersecurity threats. The collaboration between QCi and Ciena underscores the shift towards integrating quantum-secure and post-quantum cryptographic techniques into existing network infrastructures. This move is part of a broader industry trend towards preparing for the quantum future while addressing current security challenges.

What we're watching

Technology Integration: How the integration of QCi's QKD and quantum identity authentication with Ciena's optical encryption will perform in real-world network environments.
Market Adoption: The pace at which businesses and network operators will adopt quantum-secured communications to protect against current and future cybersecurity threats.
Regulatory Compliance: Whether the solution will meet evolving regulatory standards and certifications for quantum-safe communications.