Verizon has announced that it is introducing several new technologies which will combine to improve its 5G network security, including quantum-based key encryption and security network accelerators. Quantum key distribution (QKD) continuously generates encryption keys, to protect data, and Verizon is one of the first operators to trial the technology in the USA, with a pilot in Washington DC. The keys are immune to hacker attacks because any disruption to the channel breaks the quantum state of photons, and makes it clear that eavesdropping is occurring. In the trial, QKD was used to secure video streams over fiber networks between three locations – the telco’s executive briefing center and 5G Lab, both in Washington DC, and its office in nearby…