Would a Functioning Quantum Computer Render Encryption Useless?
If we look at the basic mechanics of quantum, that a object simultaneously exists in all states, would a functioning quantum underly a classical computer that uses binary bits?
In particular I am curious if we look at blockchain and encryption and the theoretical impact it can have on that.
A Quantum computer itself is very fragile and I believe there has been progress for a complete quantum control with semiconductor Qubits.
I find Quantum fascinating and it seems we are not far away from that in the future.
Thoughts?
Hi @originate , I have a fairly detailed understanding of Quantum Mechanics, Quantum Computing and encryption...
I can confidently tell you that if a functioning Quantum computer is ever created then ALL current encryption would be rendered completely useless.
ALL encrypted files could be unlocked and Blockchains could be completely undone.
MAYBE in the future, someone will develop a kind of Quantum encryption, this would be the only way to keep data secure.
Thanks @dr-physics nice insight.
Yes that is my understanding as well. In addition to what you said. The developers of the Atos Quantum Learning Machine (QLM) (a computer system that simulates quantum behaviour in order to develope software for a future quantum computer) support the development of an encryption that is quantum resistant. They expect a first working algo in about 1 year. Means, in the future all bockchains and cryptocurrencies have to go through a major hardfork.
Hi @dinoo ... I wasn't aware of this group but I guessed that someone, somewhere would be working on this task.
Surprisingly, not ALL Blockchains will have to undergo a hardfork. I have found ONE crypto whos team are already working on quantum proofing their Blockchain :D
The Chinese Blockchain, 'Antshares' (currently being rebranded to 'NEO') are the only team (that I know of) working on this. Their product honestly looks amazing. I would recommend everyone check out this particular Blockchain :)
Didn't know ANS is working on that. Nice, I happen to own a few. As far as I know they're considered being the ETH of China. And as China has the policy to only use Chinese products instead of the western counterpart this ANS mightbe up to a surge.
Anyway, a few cryptocurrencies are mentioned when it comes to quantum resistance. First and foremost probably the Quantum Resistand Ledger, but also IOTA. Even ETH is mentioned to have to built in option to upgrade the algo to quantum resistant when available. And probably many more as well. So, for now I wouldn't worry about it too much. It will be implemented when necessary. As the tech is easy to be copied I also would not expect the current projects to be the most profitable ones to invest in. A crypto needs much more than just features in order to be a financially successful investment.
Most recently I bought COEVAL. Monkey Capital seems to be quite serious about their project. So far it's well into profit and if the predictions of mainstream media is even remotely accurate, then we'll see a huge rise coming :)
Quantum Resistant Ledger! I think they are woking on something to supposedly prevent this!
Its a interesting topic, Im kinda New to this so i Will look more into this topic before i say something, Thanks for the share.
I would think with quantum computing it would just make it quicker to crack the passwords maybe by 2X but then again with quantum computing it can make it 2x more stronger
Yes, we are vulnerable. Recently the was an advancement that supposedly requires the blockchain to find an update to asymmetric cryptography. At the moment we are safe for around 20 years and the protocol has taken this into account. Particularly Bitcoin.
The fastest way is to change the Bitcoin address and never use the same address once. Even with Quantum computers is almost impossible.
looking rating high, nice post
Their is some kind of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms like the
McEliececryptosystem to protect data against quantum computer.I can't figure if the
Merkle Patricia Treedeveloped by ethereum is quantum proof at the blockchain level but I do know that PQ Solutions have developed post-quantum solutions using McEliece and blockchains.Cannot establish a link between blockchain technology and quantum computers.
I am keen on finding uses for blockchain technology in science. Do you think, for example, blackchain could be useful to tackle Turing NP problems, like the TSP (traveling salesman)?
The link is, that a quantum computer can decrypt all data encrypted in blockchain. In other words, all private keys for every wallet would be known and everyone with a quantum computer could withdraw your coins.
Oh my! A totally different ballgame, then. This technology, which is cutting edge today, would be completely obsolete!
As always. I don't see you writing this comment on a typewriter. Totally cutting edge a little while ago :P Same with data encryption. 70 years ago the Enigma machine was groundbreaking. Today every calculator would be better.