Arqit Introduces SKA Central Controller to Provide Managed Service Providers with Simplified, Quantum-Safe Network Security
Arqit Quantum News
The SKA Central Controller (SKA-CC), a cutting-edge software platform created to significantly streamline the implementation of quantum-safe network services, was introduced today by Arqit Quantum Inc., a world leader in quantum-safe encryption.
Launched in November 2025, SKA-CC presents a solution designed to future-proof network security against current and upcoming post-quantum threats. The platform, which is specifically designed for Telco and Defense Managed Service Providers (MSPs), enables these businesses to offer cutting-edge security features without having to pay for and deal with the complicated and expensive key management infrastructure that is often required.
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Core Innovation: Dynamic Symmetric Key Generation
The SKA-CC’s security mechanism, which is a crypto-agile, low-footprint product that creates dynamic symmetric keys, is its primary innovation. These keys are utilized for endpoint authentication as well as encrypted VPN tunnels.
The SKA-CC successfully eliminates dependence on conventional security foundations, such as long-lived pre-shared keys or intricate Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)-based systems, by putting this concept into practice. Quantum-safe encryption is used to protect data moving across virtual private networks, whether it be through wireline, mobile, cloud, or AI-enabled environments. This defence is described as scalable, robust, and lightweight.
Enabling New High-Growth Security Services
Telcos and communication infrastructure providers may now differentiate their services and create new revenue streams by implementing advanced security features across a wide variety of current and new service offerings the advent of SKA-CC. The platform helps several interconnected industries fulfil the growing demand for post-quantum security.
The SKA-CC supports the following specific use cases, which span several network connectivity layers:
- Secure Network-as-a-Service (NaaS): The platform incorporates multi-tenant key usage policy controls and offers multi-layer, quantum-safe VPN services. This is perfect for protecting use cases in highly automated management and orchestration (MANO) settings that involve Virtual Private Cloud connections, virtual network operations, and Universal CPE.
- Mobile and Edge Connectivity: For remote and mobile users, the controller provides post-quantum secure VPN services. Additionally, it protects Private 5G infrastructure connectivity between radio base stations and the core network.
- Critical Infrastructure Security: By protecting connectivity between cloud services, edge gateways, and IoT hubs, SKA-CC safeguards communications that are necessary for IoT and OT security. For industries like energy, oil and gas, and general vital infrastructure, these applications are essential.
- OSI Layer Implementations: Quantum-safe symmetric keys are included in the system at multiple OSI levels:
- Optical (OSI Layer 1): Connects OEM transport devices that use OTNsec to keys.
- Carrier Ethernet (OSI Layer 2): High-throughput, quantum-safe MACsec point-to-point communications are made possible by Carrier Ethernet (OSI Layer 2).
- Internet Protocol (OSI Layer 3): By combining symmetric keys, IPsec VPNs become quantum-safe.
- Application Programming Interfaces (OSI Layer 4-7): Provides quantum-safe protection for TLS-based APIs.
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Executive Perspective and Arqit’s Mission
In his remarks about the launch’s strategic significance, Scott Alexander, Chief Product Officer at Arqit, acknowledged that “Quantum computing will change the threat landscape.” SKA-CC provides partners with a quick and easy way to protect their networks and keep a head start on potential threats, he said. The introduction advances Arqit’s goal of simplifying and scaling robust encryption so that the telecom industry can attain reliable, worldwide, quantum-safe communication.
Broader Arqit Platform Context
In order to protect the communications links of any networked device or cloud computer against present and future attacks, including those coming from a quantum computer, Arqit Quantum Inc. (ARQQ) offers a special encryption software service.
The Symmetric Key Agreement Platform, the company’s main product, uses a small software agent to allow endpoint devices to collaborate with other devices to generate encryption keys locally. These keys play a crucial role in enabling Zero Trust Network Access and are computationally secure. With customisable group sizes and refresh rates, the platform can generate an infinite number of keys.
Because Arqit’s technology is built to standards, users won’t have to deal with annoying rip-and-replace requirements. It complies with RFC 8784 and NSA CSfC Symmetric Key Management Requirements Annexe 1.2 and is compatible with NSA CSfC Components.
Arqit was recognized as an IDC Innovator for Post-Quantum Cryptography in September 2024. The business has received numerous accolades, including two GSMA Global Mobile Awards in 2024 and the National Cyber Awards’ Cyber Defense Product of the Year 2024, and is also accredited to the ISO 27001 Standard. Arqit has separately announced the QuantumCloud 3.0 Platform’s debut.
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