Saudi scientists break Quantum security speed records
Saudi generator achieves thousand-fold performance improvement
#SaudiArabia #Quantum - Saudi Arabia research university KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) and Saudi Arabia's national science agency KACST (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology) have developed the world's fastest quantum random number generator, achieving performance nearly 1000 times faster than existing systems. The breakthrough device passed rigorous randomness tests by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and promises to revolutionise data security across health, finance, and defence industries. Led by KAUST Professor Boon Ooi alongside Professor Osman Bakr, the research utilises micro-LED technology to create portable quantum generators that produce truly unpredictable random numbers essential for robust cybersecurity applications.
SO WHAT? - The Saudi researchers’ quantum breakthrough addresses a critical vulnerability in current cybersecurity systems where pseudo-random number generators can be algorithmically solved by sophisticated attackers. The innovation provides genuine quantum-based randomness that cannot be predicted or replicated, offering unprecedented security for financial institutions, healthcare systems, and defence networks.
Here are a few key details about the breakthrough:
KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) and KACST (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology) have created the world's fastest quantum random number generator, achieving performance nearly 1000 times faster than existing quantum systems based on international benchmarks.
The device passed strict randomness tests by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), demonstrating genuine quantum-based unpredictability compared to vulnerable pseudo-random generators currently used across industries.
The breakthrough utilises micro-LED technology with components measuring just a few micrometers, significantly reducing energy demands whilst enabling portable applications across diverse security-critical environments.
KAUST Professor Boon Ooi led the research team alongside Professor Osman Bakr, with contributions from KACST researcher Dr Abdullah Almogbel who directs the Center of Excellence for Solid-State Lighting.
Current random number generators suffer from algorithmic vulnerabilities as they are pseudo-random systems that can be solved by sophisticated attackers seeking to compromise security systems.
The quantum generator produces truly unpredictable random numbers using quantum mechanics principles, eliminating the predictability issues that plague conventional security systems across finance, healthcare, and defence sectors.
Dr Abdullah Almogbel emphasised KACST's commitment to advancing applied research supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives, particularly establishing global leadership in quantum-enabled innovations and strategic technologies.
The research was published in Optics Express and represents innovations in both device fabrication and post-processing algorithms that enabled the record-breaking performance achievements.
[Written and edited with the assistance of AI]