The cybersecurity industry is used to change. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to augmented reality and the Internet of Things, there are many emerging technologies reshaping cybersecurity. One of these exciting technologies is quantum computing, which has significant implications for IT security.
The IT superheroes at Tekie Geek understand the cybersecurity concerns of businesses in a digital environment. In addition to a range of IT services, we provide our vast knowledge of cybersecurity trends to help organizations in New York and New Jersey stay on top of new developments. Here, we share more about quantum computing and its impact on business cybersecurity.
Quantum computing uses elements of quantum physics to take computing to another level. Traditional computing uses bits that store either zeros or ones, but quantum computing uses bits that store zeros and ones called qubits. A qubit may contain any combination of zeros and ones concurrently, a feature called superposition.
This design enables quantum computers to solve highly complex statistical problems beyond the capabilities of classic computers. When solving a problem with several variables, a traditional computer must start a new calculation every time variables change. Each calculation represents a single path to a single answer. Through superposition, quantum computers can explore multiple paths at once.
A great comparison for quantum computing is flipping a coin. When the coin lands, there are two options — heads or tails. While it’s flipping, it’s not heads or tails but a probability of either. It’s in the flipping that quantum computing goes to work.
Another key aspect of quantum computing is entanglement. This occurs when qubits interact, allowing them to scale exponentially and increase computing power. The combination of great computing power and the ability to solve complex problems makes quantum computers ideal for intricate calculations. Some applications of quantum computing in the business world include:
Among its multiple business advantages is the potential quantum computing has for cybersecurity. Quantum machine learning and quantum random number generation are two functions that can enhance cybersecurity efforts.
Through capabilities like behavioral analysis and predictive analytics, machine learning is already a part of many companies’ cybersecurity strategies. Quantum computing may enhance these abilities further for stronger cybersecurity. For instance, another of machine learning’s functions is classifying large datasets to categorize cyber threats. Quantum machine learning can speed up the classification to identify risks quickly.
Random number generation is a core aspect of cryptography. In classical random number generation, there are two main types — pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs) and true random number generators (TRNGs). PRNGs are generated by software, which runs the same way every time. As such, PRNGs are very deterministic. TRNGs are selected using an unpredictable method where there’s an equal chance any number in a range is selected.
Quantum random number generators (QRNGs) are like TRNGs, except QRNGs are even more random because they rely on the inherent randomness of quantum physics. QRNGs offer better security because the generated number is harder to guess.
Technology professionals believe it will be a while before quantum computers become commercially available. However, businesses should still consider the risks quantum computing may have on cybersecurity in addition to its benefits.
One concern is that quantum computing could render current data encryption techniques ineffective. Current encryption methods can take even the most powerful computers many years to break, which is why it’s an important security feature. As quantum computing advances, researchers suggest large-scale quantum computing could break modern cryptography in a few hours.
Although it may be more than a decade before this cybersecurity risk is realized, businesses want to prepare for it now. Updating encryption methods is crucial as new technologies and techniques become available. This may involve implementing zero-trust cybersecurity architectures, using 5G private networks, and reducing the distribution of encryption.
With so many emerging technologies affecting cybersecurity and IT, it can be overwhelming to keep up with trends. To learn more about quantum computing and other developments, trust Tekie Geek for Geek Trends. In addition to providing expertise, Tekie Geek offers multiple IT services to businesses in New York and New Jersey, including:
To learn more about what the IT superheroes at Tekie Geek can do for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation.