Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Log inSign up
Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Blog
Job Board
Q3AS

© 2026 Aqora Quantum S.A.S.

TermsPrivacyLegal Notice

The potential impact of quantum computers on society

Ronald de Wolf

Published Sep 15, 2017• 99 citations
Publisher

Abstract

This paper considers the potential impact that the nascent technology of quantum computing may have on society. It focuses on three areas: cryptography, optimization, and simulation of quantum systems. We will also discuss some ethical aspects of these developments, and ways to mitigate the risks.
DOI
10.1007/s10676-017-9439-z

Related papers

Quantum Shifts: The Societal Implications of Quantum Computing on Security, Privacy, and the Economy

Mary Christine Wheatley

Quantum computing is set to revolutionize various aspects of society, with its ability to process information exponentially faster than traditional computers. This article explores the transformative potential of quantum computing on societal structures, focusing primarily on its impacts on data security, privacy, and economic frameworks. It delves into the challenges and opportunities quantum computing presents, particularly in breaking conventional encryption methods and fostering the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic systems. The review also examines the broader societal implications, including privacy concerns raised by enhanced data mining capabilities and surveillance, as well as the economic transformations anticipated as industries and job markets adapt to quantum innovations. Additionally, the paper discusses the ethical dilemmas and governance issues that arise, emphasizing the need for global cooperation in policy-making to manage the deployment of quantum computing technologies responsibly. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the impending quantum era, suggesting pathways for integrating quantum computing into society while addressing the potential disparities it could exacerbate.

Premier Journal of Computer Science•Nov 6, 2024•5 citations

Feasible Applications of Quantum Computing in Varying Fields

Elias Chamma, Amber McGee, Austin Gillmann +2 more

This paper explores the potential impact of quantum computing in several fields, including medicine, finance, cybersecurity, cryptography, high-performance computing and hacking. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize these fields by providing significant advancements in processing power, enabling the development of new algorithms and computing methods that were previously impossible with classical computing. The paper explores the potential risks of quantum computing in the context of hacking, as quantum computers can potentially break through existing security systems and create new threats to privacy and security. Quantum computing has the potential to break through current encryption methods and develop new, more secure encryption techniques. High-performance computing can benefit from quantum computing through faster simulations and optimization of complex systems. In the field of medicine, quantum computing can be used to accelerate drug discovery and personalize medicine by simulating molecular interactions at the atomic level. Finally, in finance, quantum computing can be utilized for portfolio optimization, risk management, and algorithmic trading. This paper concludes that quantum computing has immense potential for improving various fields, but it is important to consider the associated risks and challenges. Moreover, there is a need for further research and development in areas such as post-quantum cryptography, algorithm development and cybersecurity. The potential of quantum computing and its intersection with other technologies highlight the long path towards classical computing's maturation.

International Conference on Computational Science and Computational Intelligence (CSCI)•Dec 13, 2023•4 citations

QUANTUM COMPUTING: CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS AND FUTURE IMPLICATIONS FOR TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

Dr. Sara Ahmed

Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in the realm of computational technologies, promising to revolutionize industries and solve complex problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. With advancements in quantum algorithms, quantum hardware, and quantum error correction, this field is progressing rapidly, although challenges remain in achieving practical, scalable quantum computers. This paper explores the current developments in quantum computing, its implications for technology and society, and the potential impacts on industries such as cryptography, artificial intelligence, and healthcare. Additionally, the study provides an outlook on the ethical, economic, and social challenges posed by the wide-scale adoption of quantum computing.

Zonal Journal of Researcher's Inventory•Apr 7, 2024•0 citations

The Future of Quantum Computing: A Review of Potential Impacts on IT Industry

Bukky Okojie Eboseremen, Babawale Patrick Okare, Tope David Aduloju +2 more

Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in information processing, promising unprecedented computational power and the ability to solve complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of classical computers. This Review provides a concise overview of the potential impacts of quantum computing on the Information Technology (IT) industry, exploring key advancements, challenges, and transformative possibilities. Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform computations in ways that classical computers cannot emulate. This review examines the potential ramifications for the IT industry, addressing crucial aspects shaping the future of quantum computing. The impacts on cryptography, a cornerstone of IT security, are discussed, as quantum computers have the potential to break widely used encryption algorithms, necessitating the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions. Additionally, the Review delves into the optimization of complex problem-solving tasks, such as optimization problems and machine learning algorithms, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of quantum computing in accelerating data analysis and decision-making processes. Challenges in realizing the full potential of quantum computing, including error correction, qubit stability, and hardware development, are also explored. As quantum computers are still in the nascent stages of development, addressing these challenges is imperative for harnessing their true capabilities. The Review concludes by highlighting the collaborative efforts of industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers in advancing quantum computing technologies. Initiatives and investments are underway to develop scalable and commercially viable quantum hardware and software, signaling the beginning of a new era in information processing. In summary, this Review provides a snapshot of the evolving landscape of quantum computing and its potential impacts on the IT industry. As quantum technologies continue to mature, their transformative influence on cryptography, problem-solving tasks, and computational capabilities is poised to reshape the IT industry, prompting stakeholders to adapt and capitalize on the quantum computing revolution.

International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation•Jan 1, 2023•1 citation

The Impact of Quantum Computing on Security in Emerging Technologies

Abdelrahman Abuarqoub, Simak Abuarqoub, Ahmad Alzu’bi +1 more

Quantum computing is rapidly shifting from high-tech lab to mainstream commercial use in the next few years, representing the next breakthrough in modern ICT. It is motivated by quantum computer's ability to perform computational tasks with efficiencies that are not possible with classical computers. Quantum computing technology has a lasting potential impact on society and broad implications on many aspects of our lives. Although quantum computing has several advantages, it threatens the security of current cryptographic techniques. It is expected that quantum computers will be able to solve the key distribution problem and break every single cryptography and authentication algorithm based on asymmetric cryptography. New emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, 5G, artificial intelligence and robotics all rely on cryptography for their secure operation. Therefore, the realisation of quantum computing will pose significant challenges to the current progress and future development of these technologies. In this paper, the quantum technology preliminaries are discussed. The possible impact of quantum technologies on emerging technologies is investigated. Finally, some of the currently available quantum-safe cryptosystems devoted to protecting computer systems in the quantum era are discussed.

International Conference on Future Networks and Distributed Systems (ICFNDS)•Dec 15, 2021•18 citations

Impact of quantum computing on organizations and their technological infrastructure

Diego León Betancur Pérez, Anny Carolina Betancur Taborda, Leydi Johanna Henao Tamayo

This article investigates the impact of quantum computing (QC) as an emerging technology with the potential to benefit businesses and their technological infrastructure. The main objective is to describe the challenges organizations face when adopting it, as well as the opportunities it offers in increasingly competitive and strategically complex markets driven by exponential growth. The study also identified that, while quantum computing promises to revolutionize areas such as resource optimization, productivity efficiency, and the simulation of future scenarios—enabling better-informed decision-making and risk mitigation—its implementation encounters significant obstacles: high costs, the need for specialized talent, and new security risks. To address these barriers, hybrid models combining cloud and local infrastructure, as well as microservices, have emerged as practical alternatives, enabling organizations to access this technology without requiring substantial initial investment. Ultimately, this research contributes to the academic discussion that quantum computing is not a replacement but rather a complement that can be integrated gradually and carefully. The path forward requires efforts in education and policy to ensure accessible and ethical development, preventing it from becoming a tool reserved for only a few.

CITAS•Nov 5, 2025•0 citations
Quantum computing is set to revolutionize various aspects of society, with its ability to process information exponentially faster than traditional computers. This article explores the transformative potential of quantum computing on societal structures, focusing primarily on its impacts on data security, privacy, and economic frameworks. It delves into the challenges and opportunities quantum computing presents, particularly in breaking conventional encryption methods and fostering the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic systems. The review also examines the broader societal implications, including privacy concerns raised by enhanced data mining capabilities and surveillance, as well as the economic transformations anticipated as industries and job markets adapt to quantum innovations. Additionally, the paper discusses the ethical dilemmas and governance issues that arise, emphasizing the need for global cooperation in policy-making to manage the deployment of quantum computing technologies responsibly. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the impending quantum era, suggesting pathways for integrating quantum computing into society while addressing the potential disparities it could exacerbate.
This paper explores the potential impact of quantum computing in several fields, including medicine, finance, cybersecurity, cryptography, high-performance computing and hacking. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize these fields by providing significant advancements in processing power, enabling the development of new algorithms and computing methods that were previously impossible with classical computing. The paper explores the potential risks of quantum computing in the context of hacking, as quantum computers can potentially break through existing security systems and create new threats to privacy and security. Quantum computing has the potential to break through current encryption methods and develop new, more secure encryption techniques. High-performance computing can benefit from quantum computing through faster simulations and optimization of complex systems. In the field of medicine, quantum computing can be used to accelerate drug discovery and personalize medicine by simulating molecular interactions at the atomic level. Finally, in finance, quantum computing can be utilized for portfolio optimization, risk management, and algorithmic trading. This paper concludes that quantum computing has immense potential for improving various fields, but it is important to consider the associated risks and challenges. Moreover, there is a need for further research and development in areas such as post-quantum cryptography, algorithm development and cybersecurity. The potential of quantum computing and its intersection with other technologies highlight the long path towards classical computing's maturation.
Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in the realm of computational technologies, promising to revolutionize industries and solve complex problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. With advancements in quantum algorithms, quantum hardware, and quantum error correction, this field is progressing rapidly, although challenges remain in achieving practical, scalable quantum computers. This paper explores the current developments in quantum computing, its implications for technology and society, and the potential impacts on industries such as cryptography, artificial intelligence, and healthcare. Additionally, the study provides an outlook on the ethical, economic, and social challenges posed by the wide-scale adoption of quantum computing.
Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in information processing, promising unprecedented computational power and the ability to solve complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of classical computers. This Review provides a concise overview of the potential impacts of quantum computing on the Information Technology (IT) industry, exploring key advancements, challenges, and transformative possibilities. Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform computations in ways that classical computers cannot emulate. This review examines the potential ramifications for the IT industry, addressing crucial aspects shaping the future of quantum computing. The impacts on cryptography, a cornerstone of IT security, are discussed, as quantum computers have the potential to break widely used encryption algorithms, necessitating the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions. Additionally, the Review delves into the optimization of complex problem-solving tasks, such as optimization problems and machine learning algorithms, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of quantum computing in accelerating data analysis and decision-making processes. Challenges in realizing the full potential of quantum computing, including error correction, qubit stability, and hardware development, are also explored. As quantum computers are still in the nascent stages of development, addressing these challenges is imperative for harnessing their true capabilities. The Review concludes by highlighting the collaborative efforts of industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers in advancing quantum computing technologies. Initiatives and investments are underway to develop scalable and commercially viable quantum hardware and software, signaling the beginning of a new era in information processing. In summary, this Review provides a snapshot of the evolving landscape of quantum computing and its potential impacts on the IT industry. As quantum technologies continue to mature, their transformative influence on cryptography, problem-solving tasks, and computational capabilities is poised to reshape the IT industry, prompting stakeholders to adapt and capitalize on the quantum computing revolution.
Quantum computing is rapidly shifting from high-tech lab to mainstream commercial use in the next few years, representing the next breakthrough in modern ICT. It is motivated by quantum computer's ability to perform computational tasks with efficiencies that are not possible with classical computers. Quantum computing technology has a lasting potential impact on society and broad implications on many aspects of our lives. Although quantum computing has several advantages, it threatens the security of current cryptographic techniques. It is expected that quantum computers will be able to solve the key distribution problem and break every single cryptography and authentication algorithm based on asymmetric cryptography. New emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, 5G, artificial intelligence and robotics all rely on cryptography for their secure operation. Therefore, the realisation of quantum computing will pose significant challenges to the current progress and future development of these technologies. In this paper, the quantum technology preliminaries are discussed. The possible impact of quantum technologies on emerging technologies is investigated. Finally, some of the currently available quantum-safe cryptosystems devoted to protecting computer systems in the quantum era are discussed.
This article investigates the impact of quantum computing (QC) as an emerging technology with the potential to benefit businesses and their technological infrastructure. The main objective is to describe the challenges organizations face when adopting it, as well as the opportunities it offers in increasingly competitive and strategically complex markets driven by exponential growth. The study also identified that, while quantum computing promises to revolutionize areas such as resource optimization, productivity efficiency, and the simulation of future scenarios—enabling better-informed decision-making and risk mitigation—its implementation encounters significant obstacles: high costs, the need for specialized talent, and new security risks. To address these barriers, hybrid models combining cloud and local infrastructure, as well as microservices, have emerged as practical alternatives, enabling organizations to access this technology without requiring substantial initial investment. Ultimately, this research contributes to the academic discussion that quantum computing is not a replacement but rather a complement that can be integrated gradually and carefully. The path forward requires efforts in education and policy to ensure accessible and ethical development, preventing it from becoming a tool reserved for only a few.