When will quantum computing affect you? Security perspective

Episode 1 - Quantum Technology Explained series

Quantum is a trendy buzz word floating around the tech community. But what is Quantum Computing, and when will it's supremacy change everything?

The word quantum originates from the field of physics known as quantum physics which describes the world at a subatomic level. At this microscopic scale, matter behaves probabilistically. Weird. Counter-intuitive. Multiple particles can entangle together and act like one object. Quantum objects can be simultaneously on and off, being both here and there at the same time.

Quantum computers utilise quantum behaviour to accomplish computations. Unlike classical computers, quantum computers are analogous devices. They store information in quantum bits - qubits. They are so powerful that a quantum computer with just 100 qubits could not be simulated by a classical computer. However, with every advancement comes some risk.

Quantum changes the equilibrium in data security. Mathematical problems underpinning classical cryptography algorithms could be effortlessly broken by quantum computers. Think about a bank losing an encrypted file containing strictly confidential information — quantum computing algorithms would make it very easy for someone to access that information. The upshot? Data which needs to remain secure over the long-term needs to become quantum resilient now.

Here is the most straightforward formula to understand the relationship between the quantum computer development timeline and when it will hit you. The bottom side of the equation is the time required to develop a robust, general-purpose quantum computer. The top side of the equation characterises the organisation's environment. There are two characteristics. The first item is the time for which the information must be protected. Malefactors can record your encrypted data right now and store it until a quantum computer is available to decrypt it. The second item is the time needed to retool your environment with quantum resilient solutions. The gap between the upper and lower factors is rapidly decreasing.

Quantum computing is transitioning from scientific curiosity to technical reality. You must be in the game to play. Instead of reactively waiting for the revolution which will be costly, it is better to start preparations now to adapt smoothly and gradually. The path towards quantum resilience is known, but will change and evolve over time.

Post your questions in the comments below. Contact Alexey Bocharnikov for further questions.