May 2017 Vol. 15 No. 5

Front-line Researchers

• Kazuhide Nakajima, Senior Distinguished Researcher, NTT Access Network Service Systems Laboratories

  

  Overview
  Data communications in Japan currently exceeds 2.5 Tbit/s, but it is predicted that demand will rise to 10 Pbit/s by the late 2020s. This forecast is creating concern that the transmission capacity of the existing optical fiber infrastructure could reach its limit. Kazuhide Nakajima is a Senior Distinguished Researcher at NTT Access Network Service Systems Laboratories, where researchers are working to solve this fast-approaching problem. We asked him about the latest research achievements in this field and his mindset as a researcher.

Feature Articles: Security Concerns―Growing Threats and Business Opportunities

• Research and Development of Security Concerns Relating to Growing Threats and Business Opportunities

  

  Abstract
  The Internet of Things era has resulted in many devices with security vulnerabilities being connected to networks, and this is resulting in a rapid increase in the number of security threats in new areas such as infrastructure facilities that have up to this point been regarded as safe. On the other hand, it is also creating new business opportunities with the utilization of diverse information. This article introduces the security research and development strategy of NTT laboratories from two perspectives: defeating new threats based on an understanding of environmental changes of this nature, and strengthening the competitiveness of our business.

• Secure Architecture for Critical Infrastructure

  

  Abstract
  Recent developments such as the Internet of Things mean that a wide variety of equipment is now being connected to networks. It is feared that this trend could lead to further increases in threats to cybersecurity. At NTT Secure Platform Laboratories, we are working on technology that can be used to protect critical infrastructure networks by investigating security incidents, automating the analysis and handling of incidents, and reducing latent security risks in devices and equipment.

• Cyber-attack Countermeasures for Cars

  

  Abstract
  Cyber-attacks on cars have become a serious real-world issue following recent revelations in which it was verified that cars can be illegally operated via the Internet. Thus, there is an urgent need for security countermeasures to protect the safety and security of cars. This article introduces the current trends in car security and describes car security evaluation techniques and countermeasures that we are currently working on at NTT Secure Platform Laboratories.

• A Secure Business Chat System that Prevents Leakage and Eavesdropping from the Server by Advanced Encryption Technology

  

  Abstract
  In business-oriented chat applications, end-to-end encryption is needed to prevent governments and service providers from eavesdropping or leaking information. At NTT Secure Platform Laboratories, we are working on a prototype secure business chat system that not only prevents leakage from terminals by not leaving any data on the terminals, but also makes it possible to exchange and search messages without disclosing any secrets to the server. This article introduces the encryption technology used in this prototype system.

• Key Points of the Amendments to the Act on the Protection of Personal Information, and Anonymization Methods for the Use of Personal Data

  

  Abstract
  The Act on the Protection of Personal Information was amended in 2015 to promote further development of industry through the use of personal data while at the same time protecting people’s privacy. In this article, we discuss the five amendments that were made to this act. We also describe an anonymously processed information system that could lead to the creation of new business for NTT, and we introduce NTT’s proprietary Pk-anonymization technology that keeps information secure without harming its usefulness.

Regular Articles

• Discovery of a Stable Molecular State Consisting of Photons and an Artificial Atom

  

  Abstract
  In a joint study with the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology and the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute, we have conducted experiments to alter the strength of interactions between a superconducting artificial atom and microwave photons. We have confirmed the existence of a qualitatively new lowest energy ground state where an artificial atom is dressed with virtual photons to form a novel type of molecule. Our research makes it possible to control the interactions between matter and light over a range of energies orders of magnitude higher than has hitherto been possible. This is expected to have applications in quantum technologies including quantum communication, quantum computing, and next-generation ultraprecise atomic clocks.

Global Standardization Activities

• Creating a New Ecosystem for NFV/SDN Technical and Business Development: the Challenge of NTT Laboratories and Dimension Data APAC

  

  Abstract
  Network functions virtualization and software-defined networking are changing the process of turning technology into commercial services, including the process of standardization. With this development, collaboration with other service providers in commercializing new technologies and the role of integrators are both growing in importance, especially as the granularity of functional components becomes ever smaller. This article introduces the NTT Information Network Laboratory Group’s activities in promoting global deployment of NTT research results through collaboration with Dimension Data, one of the NTT Group integrators.

Information

• Event Report: NTT R&D Forum 2017

  

  Abstract
  NTT held NTT R&D Forum 2017, an annual event, at NTT Musashino Research and Development Center from February 13 to 17, 2017 (with February 13 and 14 reserved for press tours and NTT Group company employees) under the theme “Open the Way―Towards 2020 and Beyond.” This article reports on this five-day event.

Short Reports

• Soft Error Test Service Commences to Reproduce Soft Errors―Abnormal Operation of Electronic Equipment Caused by Cosmic Rays

External Awards/Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conference Proceedings

• External Awards/Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conference Proceedings