The Evolution of the Qubit

Yesterday’s post regarding quantum cryptography got me thinking about the interesting privacy concerns quantum cryptography could potentially brings up.

The reason being is that quantum computers, although not practical at the moment, seem more and more realistic based upon research and developments in the lab. The hardware needed is big and expensive though. The first quantum computers must be invented in the lab…manipulating a photon is not like creating the first light bulb.

It is certain that people in the research labs, and government, will get the quantum crypto first (if ever) – and all of the possible advantages that come with it. It also means, laws and restrictions can be put in place to keep quantum technology where it was born – in the lab.

It would provide a huge advantage against people who are still using traditional crypto (aka. everyone else) – no matter the what key size or encryption algorithm people are using.

The threshold is about 100 qubits to break the best modern crypto as I recall. Last I checked, scientists could only get about 20 or so in order. When we’ll hit 100 (maybe never) is debatable, but what is certain is that quantum machines need very sophisticated hardware to operate.

Eventually technology will catch up and perhaps we can ditch AES for some photonic miracle. I wonder how much resistance governments around the world will put up before that happens though?

As an avid follower of quantum cryptography, I believe the technology will eventually be feasible and in the hands of the common person. It is the gap in between I wonder about. Many countries imposed key restrictions on current encryption algorithms and some still do. It is reasonable to assume similar restrictions will be placed on quantum technology as well.

What do you think? Are my concerns valid, or is this just what happens with every new piece of modern technology?