Andrew Forbes, a professor at the University of the Witwatersrand, is leading research into next-generation internet systems that use photons to transmit data at significantly higher speeds while improving security. His work focuses on leveraging light-based communication and quantum encryption to develop what could become a new foundation for global data networks.
Forbes’ research combines advances in laser physics with quantum information science, building on years of work in optical technologies. He previously spent a decade at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and contributed to laser developments used in industry. His current work explores how individual photons can carry both data and encryption keys in a system designed to be faster and more secure than existing infrastructure, according to MyBroadband.
A key component of the proposed system is the use of multiple light patterns within a single transmission channel. Instead of encoding data into a single beam, researchers can divide light into millions of distinct patterns, each acting as an independent channel. These channels can operate simultaneously within a very small physical space, such as a square millimetre of a laser beam, significantly increasing potential data throughput.
This approach builds on existing optical communication methods but expands their capacity. Current systems typically modulate a single pattern of light to transmit information. By contrast, Forbes’ work suggests that using many patterns concurrently could increase transmission speeds by orders of magnitude, potentially reaching thousands or millions of times current internet speeds under optimal conditions.
Parallel to this, the research incorporates quantum encryption techniques. Unlike traditional encryption, which relies on mathematical complexity, quantum systems use the properties of particles such as photons to secure data. A defining feature of this approach is that quantum information cannot be copied without altering its state. If an attempt is made to intercept the communication, the disturbance is immediately detectable by both sender and receiver.
This creates a communication channel where breaches can be identified in real time. The system can then discard compromised encryption keys and generate new ones, ensuring that only secure transmissions are maintained. This method is considered theoretically resistant to decryption by future computational advances, including those involving quantum computing.
Early demonstrations of light-based communication systems are already underway globally. Forbes referenced experiments involving long-distance transmission, including a satellite-linked test spanning approximately 13,000 kilometers between South Africa and China. These tests suggest that elements of the technology can function outside laboratory conditions.
The potential applications are particularly relevant for regions where infrastructure challenges limit connectivity. High-capacity, long-distance optical links could provide new ways to connect geographically distant areas without relying solely on traditional fiber networks.
The research is supported by national initiatives such as the South African Quantum Technology Initiative, which aims to develop and deploy quantum technologies within the country. Government-backed infrastructure, including existing fiber networks, is being used to test and demonstrate these systems in practical settings.
While the technology remains in development, it represents a broader shift toward integrating quantum principles into communication networks. If successfully implemented, such systems could redefine both the speed and security standards of future internet infrastructure.
