The new service addresses rising concerns over the potential risks quantum computing poses to existing encryption systems. As quantum technology advances, sensitive data protected under current public key encryption standards could be compromised. Industries that handle confidential data—such as financial services, public institutions, healthcare, and critical infrastructure—are especially vulnerable to “store now, decrypt later” threats. These involve the collection and storage of encrypted data today, with plans to decrypt it in the future when quantum computing becomes more accessible.
Orange Quantum Defender aims to mitigate these risks by offering a secure communication platform over Orange’s existing commercial fibre network in Paris. By deploying Toshiba’s QKD systems alongside PQC algorithms, the service ensures high-speed and resilient quantum-safe connectivity. This combination provides robust protection for sensitive information and enhances long-term data security.
A leading French financial services provider has already adopted the solution, connecting several locations to the quantum-safe network to safeguard its critical financial data. The deployment demonstrates practical application and readiness for broader implementation across trust-sensitive sectors.
Aliette Mousnier-Lompré, CEO of Orange Business, commented: “We are thrilled to launch Orange Quantum Defender – a first-of-its-kind service in France. This is a significant step in the Orange multi-layer quantum-safe networking strategy, as we help our enterprise customers respond to the growing and evolving security threats from quantum computing. Built on the robust technology by Toshiba, we are not just protecting sensitive data today; we are prepared and ready to partner with our customers for a secure and resilient future.”
Hiroshi Tsukino, Corporate Vice President of Toshiba Corporation, added: “The quantum age isn’t just some fringe concept anymore, and large organisations are on the frontline when it comes to the dangers posed by powerful quantum computers. We have been collaborating with Orange for several years to validate QKD technology performance across existing fibre networks, and I’m excited to now jointly launch the first commercial solution that can deliver a quantum-safe future for organisations in Paris.”
The launch of Orange Quantum Defender represents a milestone in practical cybersecurity development, offering organisations a proactive method to secure communications infrastructure in anticipation of the quantum computing era. The collaboration reflects both companies’ long-term commitment to innovation and resilience in digital transformation.
