The quantum race. Mirek Sopek talks to Radio TOK FM
The founder of MakoLab, physicist, chemist and highly experience technology expert Mirek Sopek, PhD, was interviewed recently on Radio TOK FM.
The conversation focused on one of the most fascinating future-facing topics at the intersection point of technology, security and the economy. In other words, quantum computers.
If you’re wondering what kind of impact that revolutionary technology might have on the world of cryptocurrencies, digital security and even the global technological race, then the interview is a must-listen.
What, actually, is a quantum computer? A straightforward explanation from our founder
Dr Sopek began with a surprising point; in a sense, all the devices we use today... the computers, the smart phones... they’re all already ‘quantum’. The thing is that we currently reduce quantum phenomena to a simple zero-one metaphor, the bit, the state of 0 or 1. That’s our ‘black and white’.
And quantum computers?
That’s a whole different level of thinking. The basic unit there is the quantum bit, or qubit, which utilises the phenomenon of superposition.
With this capability of existing in an infinite number of intermediate states simultaneously, quantum computers facilitate entirely new classes of algorithms. This isn’t simply a faster machine. It’s a paradigm shift in thinking about IT.
From cryptography to cryptocurrencies. The potential and the key dangers
One of the first algorithms to be created for quantum computers was designed to factor large numbers. And that, unfortunately, is the basis of modern cryptography... and of all our digital communication.
Are quantum computers a threat to Bitcoin?
They can be a serious threat. But why?
· Cryptocurrencies are based on asymmetric cryptography, which is to say, public keys and secret private keys.
· The new algorithms mean that, theoretically, quantum computers could ‘extract’ private keys from public addresses and, by the same token, seize the resources the keys are supposed to protect.
NOTA BENE; it’s not just Bitcoin! As Dr Sopek emphasises, the threat encompasses our entire digital infrastructure, which uses that type of security, from communications with banks, via electronic signatures such as those in the mObywatel (mCitizen) application, to the most closely guarded secrets. The security problem is a global one.
The positive side of the power. Where will the quantum revolution help us?
The quantum computer doesn’t live by cracking codes alone! Its potential is vast and positive.
· Designing medications: molecular simulation at the quantum level could revolutionise pharmaceuticals, dramatically reducing the time and costs involved in discovering new drugs.
· Advanced optimisation: solving problems of unimaginable complexity, such as managing a fleet of autonomous vehicles in a major city or optimising logistics processes.
· New materials: the faster discovery and modelling of materials with unprecedented properties.
However, it’s worth remembering that not every algorithm is suitable for quantum optimisation. Quantum computers will only be exponentially quicker for specific, extremely complex problems.
The quantum race
The development of quantum technology is a crucial element in the current global race. It’s comparable to the work on Enigma or the atom bomb in the twentieth century.
· Geopolitics and secrets: the intelligence services of world powers are already collecting encrypted data, counting on quantum computers cracking them in the future.
· China versus the USA: China is investing huge sums of public money and building vast networks protected by quantum key distribution (QKD). The USA and Europe are focusing on the private sector and developing start-ups. No one knows for sure who’s going to win, because part of the progress is top secret!
Are we ready for the post-quantum era?
Even though everyday digital operations and communication algorithms are faced with increasingly complex threats, including the potential risk from future quantum computers, effective defence technologies already exist.
In response to these challenges, intensive development is underway in two critical directions.
1. Quantum key distribution (QKD): this technology uses quantum physics to generate and distribute encryption keys totally securely, in a way that’s grounded in the same phenomena as those that quantum computers can leverage to break into conventional systems.
2. Post-quantum cryptography (PQC): rooted in new, different mathematics, PQC offers a set of more powerful algorithms that are capable of protecting our IT systems against attacks by quantum computers.
In fact, these are the innovative solutions that constitute our best ‘shelter’ from future digital threats. Research and development activities in this field, carried out by Polish start-ups and experts, among others, guarantee that digital transformation can forge ahead not only innovatively but, above all, securely.
Human potential. The key to the future
What’s the most vital thing of all if we’re to build and sustain this revolution? Human potential!
The cornerstone is educating outstanding computer scientists who are capable both of shifting the paradigm of thinking and of constructing a healthy ecosystem to support start-ups and advanced research. Quantum computers are already with us, at Wrocław University of Science and Technology, to give just one example. However, the greatest challenge is creating the algorithms to make the most of their power.
Are you feeling inspired? Then what could be better than listening to the entire conversation?
It’s a genuine intellectual journey through the most crucial technological challenges of the coming decades and it’s led by our founder in his own distinctive, accessible and knowledge-filled way. And as well as listening, keep your inspiration on the boil by contacting our experts!
Listen to the full interview here: W czym ludzkości pomogą algorytmy kwantowe?
Anna Kaczkowska
Content Marketing Specialist
Responsible for planning, creating and managing content
