Post-quantum cryptography safeguards against advanced computing like Schrödinger’s Cat

In 2019, when IBM unveiled the first quantum computer for research and business at the CES (Consumer Electronic Show), it sparked significant progress in the scientific community. For secure data transmission, scientists have long relied on classic encryption techniques such as Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA), shared with the world in 1977.

Yet, the rise of quantum computers challenges traditional encryption methods due to their superior computational capabilities. To counter this threat, scientists turn to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) as a shield. It ensures that sensitive data remains secure and resistant to possible decryption by quantum devices.

Looking ahead, government private firms and agencies must sift through extensive lines of code, identifying outdated RSA and other protocols. Their goal is to replace these vulnerable methods with Post-Quantum Cryptography, effectively countering the looming threats from quantum advancements.

Post-Quantum Cryptography Secure Data

According to Newhouse, data vulnerability is a reality, and the shift to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is poised to be the most critical transition. The introduction of RSA and additional public key encryption forms multiple decades ago.

Newhouse emphasized waiting until the new Algos are finalized before implementation. He pointed out that, currently, using them would breach rules requiring a Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) validated product, which is still in the works.

Highlighting the collaborative nature of the process, Newhouse mentioned that three drafts are undergoing review, and external input is crucial. Despite initially planning to present four unique algorithms, NIST altered its course after discovering crucial defects in one through independent testing last year.

As reported by Breaking Defense, the transition from RSA to Post-Quantum Cryptography is a response to the looming threat of quantum computers skilled in breaking available encryption techniques. This transition holds widespread implications, affecting private companies, government agencies, and any entity depending on encryption for safe communication globally. The primary goal is to shield sensitive data from potential decryption by quantum machines.

Quantum similar to Schrödinger’s Cat

We all know quantum computers operate using qubits, tapping into the intrinsic anticipation of subatomic particles. Qubits can be in several states simultaneously, embodying a spectrum of values from zero to one. The origin of this concept can be traced back to Schrödinger’s Cat. It’s a famous thought experiment depicting a cat simultaneously dead and alive until observed. It’s a quirky trait of quantum machines. Exploiting this outstanding property, quantum computers can tackle computations of heightened complexity far beyond the reach of traditional computers. 

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List of Quantum Computing Applications.

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