OpenSlava 2026

Cyber Security in the Quantum Era

The rapid development of quantum computing is creating new challenges for the cryptographic systems that protect today’s digital infrastructure – while at the same time opening the door to new approaches to secure communication.

At OpenSlava 2026, the 14th edition of Accenture’s conference on emerging technologies and open source, QUTE.sk will explore how quantum technologies can contribute to the security of future networks and digital infrastructure.

Our focus this year is quantum communication and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) – from the fundamental principles behind quantum-secured communication to practical implementations in modern IT networks.

Through talks, a hands-on workshop and demonstrations in the Exhibition Area, QUTE.sk will show how QKD, post-quantum cryptography and existing cybersecurity technologies can work together to build resilient communication systems for the quantum era.

Discover the technology behind quantum-safe communication, see real-world QKD systems in action and meet the researchers and engineers working on the future of cybersecurity.

When:

14-15 October 2026

Where:

FEI STU, Ilkovičova 3, Bratislava, Slovakia

Organizers:

Our Contributions at OpenSlava 2026:

Workshop:

Quantum Key Distribution in practice: theory, systems, and applications

by David Polzoni and Samuel Klement

Who: David Polzoni and Samuel Klement, Research Center for Quantum Information, Institute of Physics at Slovak Academy of Sciences, QUTE.sk
Where: TBD
When: October 14, 2026
Proficiency: Intermediate
Language: English

This hands-on lab provides an overview of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) concepts, technologies, and practical implementations, combining theoretical foundations with real-world demonstrations.

The session begins with an introduction to QKD protocols, explaining the principles behind secure quantum communication, including:

quantum state preparation and measurement
key generation
error correction
privacy amplification

Participants will explore how commercial QKD systems can be integrated into secure communication infrastructures, particularly Software-Defined Networks (SDNs), through the use of ETSI standards such as ETSI GS QKD 014, 015, and 020.

The workshop will feature live demonstrations using ID Quantique QKD devices and a QKD-enabled secure video communication architecture, where quantum-generated keys are integrated into a WireGuard-based VPN enhanced with post-quantum cryptography, allowing secure voice and video communication through Jami.

Talk:

Quantum-Safe Networks: From Quantum Key Distribution to real-world cybersecurity

by Samuel Klement

Who: Samuel Klement, RCQI at Institute of Physics at Slovak Academy of Sciences, QUTE.sk
Where: TBD
When: October 15, 2026
Proficiency: Intermediate
Language: English

Quantum technologies are rapidly moving from research labs into real-world infrastructure, creating new possibilities for securing digital communications in the era of quantum computing. This talk introduces the fundamentals of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and shows how the technology is applied in modern IT networks.

The session explores the architecture of a national QKD network and demonstrates how commercial QKD systems, key management, and security standards work together to enable quantum-safe communications. It also examines how QKD complements post-quantum cryptography (PQC) as part of a layered security strategy that integrates with existing infrastructure. Real-world examples will showcase the use of QKD-generated keys to strengthen VPNs and secure communication platforms, illustrating practical approaches to quantum-safe networking.

The presentation provides a practical overview of the current state of QKD, its challenges, integration into existing systems, and its role in the future of cybersecurity.

Lightning Talk:

Beyond the Quantum Hype: Understanding Threats and Opportunities in the Quantum Future

by Mario Ziman

Who: Mario Ziman – Slovak National Center for Quantum Technologies – QUTE.sk
Where: TBD
When: October 15, 2026
Proficiency: Beginner
Language: English

Quantum technologies are often presented either as a revolutionary breakthrough or as a major future threat. This talk takes a balanced approach using a Quantum TOWS analysis to explore both sides of the quantum landscape. We will examine quantum-related threats, uncover hidden weaknesses, identify emerging opportunities, and discuss the strengths that make quantum technologies a key driver of future innovation. The session aims to provide a clearer understanding of where the quantum future is heading and what organizations should consider today.

Exhibition Area:

The Future of Cybersecurity is Quantum

Come and talk to our researchers and engineers about quantum communication, cybersecurity and the technologies shaping the future of secure networks.

At our booth, you can learn more about Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), quantum-safe communication and the integration of quantum technologies with existing IT infrastructure. We will also showcase practical technologies and demonstrations illustrating how quantum-generated keys can be used in real-world security applications.

Come by, ask questions and discover what quantum communication looks like in practice.

Why Attend?

Get hands-on experience with the latest in quantum technology
Explore real-world applications in secure communication and quantum computing
Engage with leading experts from our team at QUTE.sk
Be at the forefront of quantum research and innovation in Slovakia

Whether you’re a tech architect, software developer, IT consultant, or student, OpenSlava 2026 promises a rich experience with workshops, keynotes, and the latest innovations. Don’t miss the opportunity to register for free and secure your spot to explore how quantum technologies are revolutionizing the future of IT.

About our researchers:

MSc. David Polzoni is an expert in cybersecurity and cryptography with a primary focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems. As a Research Engineer at the Slovak Academy of Sciences on the EuroQCI project, he works on industrial QKD deployment, standards-compliant network components and quantum-safe key management. His expertise spans low-level and systems-level coding, semiconductor devices, cryptography, secure system design and penetration testing. He holds an M.Sc. in Cybersecurity and a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Computer Engineering. David is passionate about bridging hands-on systems engineering with rigorous research in quantum communications.

Ing. Samuel Klement is a Research Engineer at the Slovak Academy of Sciences, where he specializes in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). His work focuses on the development, deployment, testing, and demonstration of QKD systems, with an emphasis on interoperability, integration into existing IT infrastructures, and alignment with emerging technical standards. His technical background spans software development, cybersecurity, applied cryptography, and programming across both low- and high-level environments. Samuel holds a Master’s degree in Applied Informatics with a specialization in Security of Information Technologies from FEI STU. He is particularly interested in advancing the adoption of quantum-safe technologies in real-world environments.

doc. Mgr. Mário Ziman, PhD. is the Director of the Institute of Physics of the Slovak Academy of Sciences and the Chair of the Executive Committee of the National Centre for Quantum Technologies (QUTE.sk). His scientific work focuses on quantum technologies, quantum cryptography, and mathematical structures underlying quantum physics. During his studies, he worked on topics such as programmable quantum processors, models of quantum dynamics, and multipartite quantum entanglement. After completing a SCIEX postdoctoral fellowship at ETH Zurich, he continued his research in the field of quantum information.

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