Influence of quantum computing
In the past decade, we started to see advancements in the field of quantum computing. Because of the sheer power of a quantum computer, some are concerned that our well-known cryptographic algorithms may not be able to withstand a brute-force attack using a quantum computer. In this section, we'll outline how quantum computing works, and see how the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is preparing to deal with this potential by selecting and standardizing post-quantum encryption algorithms.
Let's start by getting a better understanding of quantum computing.
Describing quantum computing
If we compare a classic and a quantum computer, there are distinct differences:
- A classic computer uses binary digits (or bits) and is based on transistors that have two states, on or off.
- A quantum computer uses quantum bits (or qubits), which can be in multiple states at the same time.
Quantum computing is based...
