Quantum computing brings revolutionary possibilities, but it also poses a threat to modern encryption methods. What does this mean for enterprise IT and cybersecurity?
Quantum technology is no longer just a theory from academia. With the increasing number of qubits and improvements in quantum error correction, they are becoming a reality ready to hit the commercial sphere. However, this leap brings with it not only huge opportunities, but also challenges that can fundamentally change the way we protect our data.
Quantum computers have the potential to dramatically speed up the solution of complex problems that were virtually unattainable for classical computers. Machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies can achieve new levels of accuracy and efficiency with quantum algorithms. In addition, cloud-based services allow companies to experiment with quantum solutions without the need for their own hardware. The benefits are clear – from optimizing processes and logistics systems to analyzing large volumes of data. However, the quantum future is not just about possibilities; with every new technology comes new challenges.
One of the biggest risks that quantum computing poses is disrupting the foundations of current cybersecurity. Most of today’s encryption methods, such as RSA or ECC, are designed to withstand attacks on classical computers. However, quantum algorithms such as Shore’s algorithm can break these ciphers in significantly less time. Banking transactions and financial systems that depend on robust encryption methods, data stored on servers, including sensitive information such as medical records or trade secrets, and encrypted communication systems can all be at risk. Without a fundamental change in the approach to security, organisations could face massive data leakage or sabotage.
The solution to this threat is to move to encryption algorithms resistant to quantum attacks, so-called post-quantum encryption. These are new methods designed to withstand the computing power of quantum computers. International organisations such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are already working to standardise these algorithms. Companies should identify the critical systems and data that would be most at risk if encryption were broken, monitor progress on post-quantum ciphers and plan for their implementation, and educate their IT specialists about the risks of quantum technologies and how to prepare for them.
For IT managers, the transition to quantum technologies is a strategic challenge. In addition to technical measures such as implementing new encryption methods, they need to ensure that their teams have the right skills and infrastructure to adapt. The quantum future requires not only new technologies, but also new thinking. Businesses and organisations that fail to prepare for this transition risk losing security, credibility and competitiveness. The time to act is now – the quantum revolution is here, waiting for those who can harness it and manage its risks.
