It is a worthy fact that technology is constantly burdened with new problems as each day unfolds, necessitating its coherent improvement. Hence, its evolution over the years has provided solutions to numerous multi-faceted challenges encountered by the world’s vast sectors.
Cybersecurity is one major branch of Computer Science whose significant evolution has contributed to the consistent revolution in the digital landscape. From the early days of rudimentary malware defense and firewalls to sophisticated countermeasures of today, it has indeed proven its inarguable relevance in the world of technology.
The purpose of this article is to explore the impact of Quantum Computing in Cybersecurity and, thus, the roles they play in revamping the digital sphere.
The Classical Age
Computers that operate on the traditional basis of binary input are known as ‘Classical Computers’. Information in these computers is stored in bits and logically represented using 0s &1s, as an indication for “off” and “on” respectively. These computers can only exist in two states—0s or 1s—but not both.
Embracing the Quantum Future
Quantum computing is an offshoot of Computer Science, concerned with employing the Quantum theory of Physics in designing computers that are capable of handling complex problems which might seem difficult or even impossible for classical computers to solve. These computers operate in either states 0, 1 or both, and are called Quantum computers.
Quantum Future vs The Classical Age
As established earlier, quantum computing adopts principles from the Quantum Mechanics aspect of Physics. Hence, quantum computers possess certain distinct features that distinguish them from the traditional classical computers. These characteristics could broadly be classified as either of the key points enlisted below:
- Bits vs Qubits:
In classical computing, information is stored in bits—represented by either 0 or 1—and they symbolize the computer’s ‘on’ or ‘off’ state. However, qubits (quantum bits) are the foundations of information in quantum computers, unlike regular bits which are 0s or 1s, qubits can simultaneously exist as both.
- Conditions for Operation:
While classical computers require little or no monitored physical conditions, there are several requirements that must be met to ensure fully operational quantum computers. These conditions include super-low temperatures and an ultra-vacuum environment that has been isolated from any electromagnetic interference.
It is penitent for these extreme conditions to be met because unlike classical bits, qubits are unstable and susceptible to losing the unique properties they possess once disturbed by heat, vibration, or even rogue molecules of air.
- Quantum Effects vs Classical Logic:
Classical logic allows most classical computers to accomplish tasks one step at a time. Quantum computers on the other hand, leverage quantum effects like superposition (the ability of qubits to concurrently exist in multiple states) and entanglement (a situation of shared states between multiple qubits), to navigate vast possibilities all at once. This process is otherwise known as ‘Parallel Processing’.
The Quantum Revolution
Though Quantum Computing is still uprising, it has seemingly witnessed advancement in the few areas highlighted below, and therefore promises groundbreaking contributions that intersect technology’s vast landscape:
- Heat-resistant Data Beaming:
The ability to beam data across without generating excess heat.
- Merging Quantum and Classical Computing:
The development of algorithms that enable combination of both quantum and classical computers.
- Predominance:
Proving its superior capability, by swiftly performing complex mathematical calculations than any existing supercomputer worldwide.
Cybersecurity Takes Its Quantum Leap
It is a well propounded fact that the era of quantum computing will unleash double-edged impacts upon the cybersecurity realm. This is to say that the forthcoming advent of quantum computing will string a few threats along with the radical opportunities it holds for cybersecurity.
Furthermore, these impending risks could exterminate the classical cryptography methods, exposing many individuals, tech-based companies and industries to a colossal outbreak of insecurity. They may include:
- Seamless Cryptanalysis:
Classical encryption is based on multilayered mathematical calculations that may cost traditional computers a lot of time to tackle. However, due to quantum parallel processing, quantum computers can seamlessly and simultaneously perform these operations, enabling them to counteract encryption.
- Procure and Decrypt Later:
This approach refers to the procedure of presently gathering and storing unreadable and encrypted data, with the purpose of attempting to decrypt and access such data later when more advanced decryption techniques become available.
Is There a Brighter Quantum Future for Cybersecurity?
It has been established that quantum computing poses a few impending dangers to the cybersecurity realm. Nevertheless, when deployed suitably, it will enhance cybersecurity in numerous ways such as:
- Quantum-Resilient Cryptography (QRC):
With the emergence of quantum computing, it only makes sense that new techniques based on quantum-resistant mathematical problems will be put in place to ensure safety.
- Quantum-Based Key Exchange:
Random key generators claim to generate stochastic encryption keys, whereas most times their output contains some patterns, maximizing the potential risk of security breach. However, with the aid of quantum computing, certain principles of quantum mechanics could be exploited to create invulnerable encryption keys. Since disturbing a qubit changes its state, any attempt to intercept on a quantum based key communication will be observed.
Conclusion
In a concise nutshell, the advancement of Quantum computing promises a brighter future for technology, hence fostering the coherent revolution of cyberspace. Leveraging quantum bits (qubits), sophisticated conditions for operations, and quantum effects (such as superposition and entanglement) quantum computers are gradually racing towards replacing the traditional/classical computers.
Furthermore, cybersecurity is expected to witness a nuanced impact during the quantum era. Imminent dangers due to effortless cryptanalysis and ‘procure now-decrypt later’ are prone to occur, eliminating classical cryptography and paving way for positive opportunities like Quantum-Resilient Cryptography and Quantum-Based Key Exchange to dominate.
