BT, Equinix, and Toshiba have announced the launch of quantum-secured connectivity at two key Equinix data centres located in London’s Canary Wharf and Slough. This service, the first of its kind in the UK, will allow multiple customers using these colocation facilities to trial secure data transmission using Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), a technology that protects data by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics. With these data centres positioned in one of the world’s busiest financial districts, the initiative marks a significant step toward making quantum-secured communications more accessible to businesses.
The collaboration comes amid growing concerns that future quantum computers may be able to break conventional encryption methods. QKD provides a solution by offering security that is resistant to computational advances, including future quantum threats. The trial at the London data centres will provide a crucial opportunity for organisations to test “quantum keys-as-a-service,” securing data that requires long-term protection from “store now, crack later” risks posed by quantum computing.
• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) trial at Equinix data centres in London and Slough
• Enables multi-user access to quantum-secured metro networks for data transmission
• Designed to protect data from future quantum computing threats
• Provides businesses with a secure environment to trial quantum keys-as-a-service
“Our partnership with Toshiba has already seen us build the world’s first commercial trial of a quantum-secured metro network in London,” said Howard Watson, Chief Security and Networks Officer at BT Group.
Bruce Owen, Managing Director UK at Equinix, added: “This collaboration is a welcome opportunity to enhance our customers’ access to innovation that will build resiliency in the quantum computing era.”
Hiroshi Tsukino, Corporate Officer at Toshiba, said: “Together we are building the ultra-secure networks that will be the bedrock for the future quantum internet.”
