Impact of quantum computing in cybersecurity

For years, we have been hearing how quantum computing could change and revolutionize the world, and it seemed that Google might achieve this with its own quantum computer, Sycamore. But in July 2024, we saw these hopes shattered when a new technical proposal from Chinese scientists regarding conventional computers broke Sycamore's speed record.

However, this is just the beginning of everything that is likely to come. But why would quantum computers represent a revolution for the world, and why are millions being invested in their development?

Let’s start from the beginning.

What is quantum computing?

While a conventional computer uses bits, quantum computers use qubits.

Bits are electronic signals that are either on or off and are usually represented as zeros and ones. The 0 represents an off signal, and the 1 represents an on signal. For example, every application we use is made up of millions of these bits, which are essentially combinations of ones and zeros.

However, it is considered that bits don't truly reflect how the universe works, since things are not just either on or off. Current computers are also not very good at dealing with uncertainty, which creates a problem.

With quantum computing, which operates using qubits, this problem is solved, as qubits can exist in a superposition, meaning they can represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously. Moreover, they can be entangled, allowing for calculations to be made exponentially faster than traditional computers.

How do quantum computers work?

Unlike bits, which can only be either off or on, qubits can also be in 'superposition,' meaning that both 0 and 1 can be off or on at the same time, or anywhere in between on a spectrum. This allows for the uncertainty we mentioned earlier.

For example, if we try to exit a maze using a conventional computer, it will trace all possible paths, but one at a time. In contrast, a quantum computer will explore all paths simultaneously, even considering potential routes that a conventional computer would discard for having no exit.

The term quantum computing refers to our ability to move information, even if it contains uncertainty. By combining multiple qubits, problems that would take millions of years to solve with a conventional computer can be solved quickly.

Advantages of quantum computers

Quantum computers can perform complex calculations, solving problems related to the factorization of large numbers and optimization, which is useful in cryptography and cybersecurity.

Additionally, they can simulate chemical and biological processes, aiding in the development of medicines and new materials.

On the other hand, they can improve financial models and risk management through simulations and optimization.

In the field of cybersecurity, they can strengthen and break encryption systems, changing the approach to digital security.

They can also optimize routes and provide more efficient traffic management, improving mobility and transportation.

Now that we know what quantum computers are used for and how they work, it's time to look at their impact on cybersecurity.

Impact of quantum computers on cybersecurity

Quantum computers are expected to solve much more complex problems at a much faster speed than traditional computers, causing the most widely used encryption techniques today to quickly become obsolete and easily deciphered.

Therefore, it will be necessary to rethink things that rely on public key cryptography, such as storage encryption and digital signatures.

Quantum cybersecurity: new quantum solutions for enhanced cybersecurity

In the case of using quantum computers, cryptography as we know it would disappear, giving way to much more secure quantum solutions, such as post-quantum cryptography, which aims to create algorithms resistant to quantum computing.

Additionally, research into lattice-based cryptography, codes, and hash-based signatures is underway.

However, all of this is still in its very early stages, despite organizations like IBM having several quantum computers in operation.

Right now, the real issue lies in the use of this technology without clear laws or regulations regarding its operation. It's somewhat similar to what happened at the beginning with Artificial Intelligence.

We'll have to wait a little longer to see how it evolves and what the not-so-distant future holds for quantum computing.