RECENTLY, Chinese researchers announced that they have unveiled a method to break classic encryption using a quantum computer, which has alarmed IT industry experts on the future of cybersecurity. The singular breakthrough appears to demonstrate that the researchers found a way to crack the difficult computational problems behind cryptography, placing the security of most computer systems today at grave risk.
The initial reaction has been to point out that the West has fallen seriously behind in investments in quantum computing. The more cutting comment is that the announcement pushes back to an earlier time frame when quantum computers would become available than previously projected by 2030.
What’s the fuss?
China’s research breakthrough puts quantum computing suddenly in the news. For starters, quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum physics operating at the molecular level to solve complex mathematical problems at speeds a lot faster than traditional computing methodologies. It can, therefore, easily crack complicated algorithms that power very large systems, foremost of which are the intricate cybersecurity measures that protect sensitive information from getting compromised or stolen by cybercriminals.
So why bother with quantum computing when there’s artificial intelligence at the threshold of a brave new digital future? The quick answer is it’s all about speed of delivery since quantum computing works out its magic at the particle level.
As such, quantum computers can perform calculations at unprecedented speeds, much faster than traditional computers. They can solve complex problems involving optimization and simulation, which translates to faster decision-making, assured on-time delivery of goods and services, and the proverbial holy grail of increased business productivity and efficiency.
Furthermore, quantum memory is vital to unrivaled data storage and retrieval capabilities. There’s also the promise of advanced privacy and data security standards, even if, with recent developments, that prospect may have to be strengthened sooner than later.
Still, quantum computing has a lot more positive things going for it. Here are a few of its advantages:
– Enable truly personalized shopping experience.
– Enhance research, discovery and development of beneficial drugs.
– Improve AI capabilities in the areas of cognitive learning and natural comprehension.
– Optimize investment portfolios in the banking and finance sector.
– Launch DNA-targeted research and development in the health care sector.
– Improve weather forecasting as large amounts of data are processed faster.
– Optimize traffic flows to reduce travel time and fuel consumption.
– Combat climate change in the discovery of carbon removal and carbon-neutral new technologies.
Meanwhile, the hurdles and drawbacks of quantum computing could only upscale the concerns with existing digital technologies, including:
– Privacy safeguards presently in place may not stand up to quantum challenges.
– New regulatory measures and strategies may have to be enacted.
– The next breed of quantum attacks could lead to first-of-its-kind disruptions.
– More problematic ethical issues may arise stemming from the high cost of and limited access to quantum computers.
– Complex construction issues and a resource-intensive process could decide which of the competing global powers would roll out the first quantum computer and, theoretically, tilt the balance of power among nations.
Boon or bane?
Quantum computing is still a pipe dream, for what all the present hoopla is worth. It’s actually all about who’s got the shiniest marbles among the top superpowers.
Our leaders must not lose sight, though, that what’s on the immediate horizon is intractable poverty, continuing natural resource depletion, including a looming energy crisis, and a climate change catastrophe predicted to come crashing down in the late 2020s. It’s a question of priorities, a far bigger quandary now than the boon or bane quantum query.
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