Quantum
Palm Beach Colleges Connect as Florida Launches Quantum-Safe Network
Publication: The Quantum Insider
Author: Matt Swayne
Source published: 22/10/2026, 11:05:00 UTC
Briefing created: 22/10/2026, 11:22:43 UTC
Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 22/10/2026, 11:19:25 UTC.
Briefings
Florida launched its first statewide quantum-safe network segment on October 15, 2026, connecting Palm Beach State College and Florida Atlantic University via IonQ quantum key distribution technology. The link operates over dark fiber infrastructure supported by a $1 million FloridaCommerce grant. This milestone establishes a blueprint for expanding the network to include Miami-Dade College and FAU's Jupiter campus within three months, with further statewide expansion contingent on additional funding.
Key points
- The first operational segment of Florida's statewide quantum-safe network connects Palm Beach State College and Florida Atlantic University using IonQ quantum key distribution technology.
- The connection utilizes dark fiber infrastructure and was supported by a $1 million FloridaCommerce grant, marking the first milestone in a broader initiative announced in April 2026.
Context
This project represents a critical step in Florida's post-quantum security strategy, aligning with the state's recommendation to prioritize post-quantum security for universities and critical infrastructure. The network serves as a foundational model for higher education and industry collaboration, with the initial phase envisioned as a nearly 100-mile corridor from Palm Beach County to Miami-Dade County.
Limitations
The evidence covers only the initial operational segment and planned future expansions. Specific details regarding the full 100-mile corridor's technical specifications, the exact funding sources for subsequent phases, and the precise timeline for the Jupiter campus connection remain uncertain without further data.
Generated by Bittrees-hosted qwen35-2b sha256:aaf42c8b7c3c on 22/10/2026, 11:22:43 UTC. Based on publisher-provided feed evidence; may not cover the full original article. Check the source for details.
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