Remember how in the past, computers used to be the size of a room? They were able to still get into the hands of consumers worldwide and create a revolutionizing phenomenon in information access and global connectivity. Now, in light of recent leaps in quantum computing research, we are getting closer and closer to making quantum computing more accessible to businesses and consumers worldwide. However, some argue whether this is really going to help the world.
You may be wondering, what is quantum computing? Why is this so revolutionary? Well, quantum computing uses a type of binary system called qubits. Just as a normal computer uses binary 0s and 1s, the quantum binary system can actually utilize both 0 and 1 at the same time. Confusing? You’re not alone. Many have been perplexed by this strange phenomenon, but this is a common rule in quantum mechanics known as superposition. The qubits can be in a superposition of 0 and 1 at the same time.
Now the important part, how does this help us in the real world? Well let me tell you, when I say quantum computers are fast, they are FAST. Due to this superposition of bits, quantum computers can perform calculations much faster than modern day calculations. What takes the world’s fastest supercomputer 5,000 years to solve, for example, a quantum computer can solve in about 100 seconds. This is amazing, right! Imagine this power in the hands of the common people.
Well, here's where the problem is. If this power gets into the hands of the wrong people, everyone is at risk. Cybersecurity in today’s world relies on the most basic form of encryption, known as passwords. However, a computer as advanced as this quantum computer would be able to crack these passwords in no time. If this gets in the hands of the people, your data is as good as gone. This is the huge problem with this computer, if we are able to develop easier access for quantum computers before we develop better methods of cybersecurity, we are all in trouble.
Thankfully, there is research being done in both fields. To prevent attacks from quantum computers, there are methods such as code-based cryptography. As we enter the quantum era, we need to make sure that we are taking care of everyone’s security first. We need to make sure that quantum computing is used for better than for worse.