QEYnet Inc.
Vulnerability Mitigation of a QKD Satellite Rekeying Device — To prevent cyberattack, satellite communications are often encrypted using encryption keys loaded onto the satellite before launch. Should keys be compromised, it is impossible to load new keys onto a satellite in orbit.

QEYnet is developing a solution to this issue using Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology, in which encryption keys are sent from the ground to the satellite as a stream of individual photons. By the laws of quantum mechanics, any attempt at eavesdropping on a QKD system can be detected, so the encryption keys produced are highly secure.

However, deviations in real hardware from the theoretical ideal can result in unintended side-channels and vulnerabilities, exposing QKD to attack. This project will test a novel system of countermeasures addressing these vulnerabilities, enabling a rapid transition of the QKD technology toward commercial readiness.

Robust satellite encryption benefits every Canadian.