The fourth challenge, C3: Security, led by the University of Cambridge, tackles one of the most critical aspects of future communication networks: ensuring that these increasingly complex systems remain secure and resilient in the face of growing cyber threats.

As both wired and wireless technologies continue to converge and evolve, they introduce new vulnerabilities that must be addressed to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. This challenge focuses on developing security measures at the most fundamental level of communication—the physical layer—and exploring cutting-edge techniques such as quantum key distribution (QKD) to safeguard next-generation networks.

One of the key aspects of this challenge is addressing security at the physical layer of communication systems. This involves securing the basic transmission of data, whether it’s over fibre optic cables or through the wireless spectrum, using advanced cryptographic techniques and ensuring that the communication channels themselves are resilient against interception, interference, or attacks. Physical layer security is particularly crucial as future networks will handle an unprecedented amount of sensitive information, from financial transactions to health data and the operation of critical infrastructure like energy grids and transportation systems. Cambridge researchers are tasked with developing robust encryption and authentication protocols that protect the system from external threats at the very foundation of data transmission.

A significant focus of the C3 challenge is the use of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), an emerging technology that promises to revolutionize network security. QKD leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to create cryptographic keys that are theoretically immune to eavesdropping. Any attempt to intercept or observe the key would immediately alter its state, alerting the network to the presence of a breach. This makes QKD one of the most secure methods of communication, especially in critical applications where data must remain confidential and tamper-proof. Cambridge researchers are working to integrate QKD into both wired and wireless communication systems, ensuring that future networks can benefit from this ultra-secure encryption technique.

Additionally, the challenge focuses on securing all-spectrum connectivity, particularly as communication networks increasingly rely on the joint optimization of wired and wireless technologies. A unified approach to security is necessary to ensure that data remains protected as it travels across different channels, from fibre optics to terahertz (THz) bands. Networks will need to be resilient to attacks such as signal jamming, spoofing, and man-in-the-middle attacks, which could disrupt communication or compromise data integrity.

Another key component of the C3 challenge is ensuring the resilience of future networks in the face of both cyber and physical attacks. Cambridge researchers are exploring how to build self-healing networks that can detect and respond to security breaches in real time, isolating compromised sections of the network and rerouting data through secure pathways. This adaptability will be crucial as networks become more decentralized, incorporating billions of IoT devices and sensors that each present unique vulnerabilities.

In conclusion, the C3 challenge aims to develop cutting-edge security solutions that not only protect the confidentiality and integrity of data but also ensure the overall resilience and reliability of future communication systems. By integrating advanced cryptography, QKD, and physical layer security measures, the University of Cambridge’s work in this challenge will play a key role in safeguarding the next generation of wired and wireless networks, making them secure enough to meet the demands of both private and public sectors, while ensuring the safety of users worldwide.

The Hub is supported by substantial investment from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation, and the UK Department of Science, Innovation and Technology. Grant References: EP/Y037197/1/ EP/X040569/1

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