Our OC#1 winners are sharing their project’s results: Eight Bells (8Bells). Project results and personal reflections from our OC#1 winners. From implementation to challenges and impact to PQ-REACT support and selection opportunities.
Eight Bells (8Bells) story
Our participation in PQ-REACT Open Call 1 – Develop has been a transformative experience, providing us with a unique opportunity to explore, experiment with, and implement innovative ideas in the rapidly evolving field of quantum technologies. Over the course of the project, our team concentrated on the development of a post-quantum TLS framework within the 5G core to enhance secure communications—an effort aimed at addressing a pressing challenge in the contemporary quantum research landscape.
Throughout the implementation phase, we tested multiple iterations of potential solutions, from fully subtracting the classical algorithms with post-quantum ones, to applying a proxy solution and creating secure communication paths. This process encompassed the integration of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, TLS configuration using proxies, comprehensive network performance evaluation, and a feasibility assessment of the proposed technology. Moreover, the challenge of integrating classical computing components with quantum algorithms necessitated a reconsideration of our initial design choices, leading to fruitful internal discussions and innovative problem-solving strategies.
Despite the inherent challenges, we achieved several significant milestones. Our final deliverable includes an experimental framework designed for quantum-secure communication between network functions (NFs), built on the Open5GS platform. This framework is accompanied by thorough documentation and analysis, all of which have been made publicly available via our GitHub repository. Furthermore, we have expressed a clear intention to engage in academic dissemination by publishing the outcomes of this project, thereby contributing to ongoing research efforts. These outputs are envisioned to serve as a foundation for future advancements and may pave the way for new directions in quantum technology research and applications within next-generation networks, in alignment with evolving cybersecurity requirements.
Looking ahead, we firmly believe that our work contributes meaningfully to the broader advancement of quantum research by offering a novel and practical toolset for adoption into the future network generations. Whether through improved algorithmic efficiency or enhanced integration between quantum and classical systems, the impact of our work may support larger initiatives aimed at building scalable and accessible quantum-secure infrastructures.
The support provided through PQ-REACT Open Call 1 was very valuable for the success of our project. It not only offered the necessary resources but also fostered a structured and goal-oriented approach that helped maintain momentum and focus throughout the development process.
Ultimately, the most valuable aspect of being selected for the PQ-REACT Open Call was the recognition of our team’s potential. This acknowledgment greatly motivated our team and reaffirmed our commitment to advancing the quantum technology landscape. Beyond serving as a development opportunity, this experience acted as a catalyst for professional growth, technical learning, and a deeper contribution to the future of quantum innovation.
