Chapter 11: Quantum Computing

Tony Hey

Alan Tang

This chapter delves into the basics of quantum computing (QC), tracing the evolution of its theories and technologies. We will explore various business use cases to highlight the practical applications of QC. Additionally, this chapter examines the security threats posed by QC, including the “harvest now, decrypt later” approach and the potential to break asymmetric cryptography. To address these challenges, this chapter discusses QC security and privacy protection solutions, covering regulations, post-quantum cryptography, and preparation strategies for a post-quantum world. This chapter covers the following topics: Quantum Computing Basics Business Use Cases Security threats posed by quantum computing Quantum Computing Security and Privacy Protection Solutions

Kavita Saini, Ritu Gupta, Dr Sandhya Pundhir

Navya Sree Anagani, Rajesh Doriya, Chandrashekar Jatoth

In the rapidly evolving realm of digital technology, quantum computing (QC) represents a groundbreaking advancement, fundamentally transforming the approach to computation and communication. By leveraging quantum mechanics principles—specifically superposition and entanglement—QC achieves computational power that surpasses classical computers. This chapter explores the core concepts of QC, including quantum circuits, gates, and algorithms, and demonstrates how these principles enable unprecedented problem-solving efficiency. This chapter also discusses quantum cryptography, a key application of quantum technologies (QT), which secures communication channels through Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). As quantum computers evolve, the chapter addresses the development of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms designed to safeguard data against quantum attacks, ensuring that future encryption methods remain robust. Offering an in-depth exploration of these transformative technologies, this chapter underscores their critical role in shaping the future of secure digital communication.

Giancarlo Ghirardi

Irfan Ali-Khan

Chapter 2 of the QC-Accelerate open dossier. AI is already a co-author of quantum-computing research; this chapter demonstrates AI scoping a hardware frontier — a kept negative on the cat-qubit bias-preserving gate rate tradeoff (kappa1/kappa2), an un-gameable verification instrument, and a map of where AI goes next. No novel physics; every quantitative claim is regenerated by in-repo code. Builds on Chapter 1 (concept DOI 10.5281/zenodo.20838232).