A conversation with Juan Pedro Brito: the launch of Qoolnet

Iñaki: What motivated you to create this company?

Juan P.: Okay. Well, the motivation for the creation of this spinoff was basically the convergence and the evolution of two main technologies: on one side, quantum key distribution (QKD), and on the other, software-defined networking (SDN). We combined both technologies, and we believe we can help in the protection of next-generation networks. QKD offers unbreakable security, and SDN offers a high degree of flexibility and adaptability to networks. So for us, this is the right moment to generate software-defined solutions for the next generation of networks.

Iñaki: So, what are you bringing to the industry with this quantum network? Why do you think there is room for a new level of security?

Juan P.: Well, as far as I know, we are pioneers in the orchestration of QKD networks using software-defined networking. There are no other competitors doing what we are doing in the way that we are doing it—with this degree of freedom and with a strong focus on integration into current network infrastructures. We work with quantum technologies like QKD, quantum random number generators, and even post-quantum algorithms.

Iñaki: How has the market reacted to the launch of this company? I believe you already have some proof-of-concept (POC) projects in place. Can you tell us a bit more?

Juan P.: Interest is growing. Right now, many companies are beginning to understand that security is not just a feature—it’s a must. And it will become even more critical in the coming years. So they are analyzing how to integrate this new technology. We are working on several POCs, trying to adapt our solution—and quantum technology in general—to meet the needs that are emerging in the industry, while minimizing the impact on existing infrastructures.

Iñaki: So you’re compatible with existing infrastructures? You can seamlessly integrate into current networks?

Juan P.: Exactly. It is a challenge because every network and every company’s security requirements are different. That demands a high degree of adaptability, and this is precisely what we offer with our software-based solutions.

Iñaki: How do you pitch your solution? Even if quantum computers never arrive, for whatever reason, do you still see a need for this kind of security layer?

Juan P.: Of course. For me, it’s mandatory. We’re not sure when quantum computers will arrive—but they will arrive. Maybe in five years, maybe in fifteen. But until then, you need to prepare your networks and protect your data from the future threats that quantum computing will pose. You need to start securing your networks now—otherwise, you’ll be completely unprotected when that time comes.

Iñaki: Coming back to your products and solutions, what business models are you targeting? Product-based, cloud-based, service-based?

Juan P.: We are licensing our software. It’s a stable solution, and we collaborate with companies to integrate it. We have a core solution we can offer, plus a set of modules adaptable to each company’s needs. That’s one side. On the other hand, we gain great insights through POCs with different companies. These collaborations not only help us evolve our product but also allow us to better align with market demands.

Iñaki: Are you already working with telco operators? Who do you see as your key customer targets?

Juan P.: Exactly. Yes, we are. I can’t name all of them, but there are several ongoing POCs. For example, we recently ran a proof of concept with Hospitales Vithas in Madrid, in collaboration with Telefónica. We’ve also worked jointly with Telefónica and Amazon Web Services, and we’re continuing to evolve the product to support different processes.

Iñaki: Finally, Juan Pedro—one wish for 2025?

Juan P.: What do I wish for? My wish is that we all keep evolving the way we are now. All the teams—those working in hardware, software, physics, optics—are making a huge effort. I hope for major advances this year and in the years to come.

Iñaki: Thank you so much, and good luck!

Juan P.: Thank you. Thanks to you!

Learn more about Juan’s work and Qoolnet here.