Quantum Computing

In the modern era, the most powerful person is the one who possesses the most data. If we talk about quantum computers, then it is such a feature that increases the speed of data analysis. A quantum computer can store a large amount of data in a small amount of space, making computational technology more efficient. This reduces energy consumption. Today, large multinational corporations such as Microsoft, Intel, Google, and IBM, as well as governments in many countries, including India, are investing heavily in the development of quantum computers.

A quantum computer is a very interesting and exciting tool because it has the ability to perform complex assessments required in areas like cyber security. It is unnecessary to say that, nowadays, digital computers do this type of assessment. Quantum communications will improve cyber security and may lead to the development of unique fingerprints. Also, for the Internet network, it can increase the current bandwidth. Quantum computers operate solely on the basis of quantum mechanics.

Quantum computing is a broad concept or technology on which quantum computers are based. Quantum computers are based on Qubits, i.e. Quantum Bits. In other words, quantum computers perform calculations, data collection and analysis through qubits. Qubits have only two binary digits (0 and 1) as in traditional digital electronic computers, but qubits can be present at the same time as 0 or 1 or a combination of 0 and 1. Traditional digital electronic computers, on the other hand, are based on the technology of bits. Bits also have only two binary digits (0 and 1), but the bits will be either 0 or 1 at a time. As a result, it is clear that the technology used in quantum computing (qubits) is distinct and more advanced than traditional computing.

Quantum computing follows the principles of quantum physics, which would lead to the creation of smaller transistors (molecule sizes) that would not only increase energy savings but also reduce the size of a quantum computer. At present, all the supercomputers in the world perform calculations and data processing millions of times faster than all other normal personal computers. A normal computer has a single processor, while a supercomputer has multiple processors that increase the speed of computation and data analysis. But the irony is that both normal computers and supercomputers work on the same technology, that is, they work on a technology based on traditional binary digits. A quantum computer, on the other hand, is based on quantum computing, which works according to the principles of quantum physics. Therefore, if powerful super quantum computers are made using quantum computing, then the future of “Information and Communication Technology” and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will change. In a quantum computer, there is a secure way of 'encryption' of information or data. There will be no problems like hacking in this. Some scientists are considering the quantum computer as a completely secure computer. It is thus clear that quantum computing will be of great help in the future in storing or reading sensitive information and various uses of quantum computers are possible for scientists.

Managing qubits is a big challenge for scientists, as their life span is short. Quantum technology can put the security of any country at risk. This can also increase the risk of breaches of confidential information from other countries. The US National Security Agency (NSA) wants to build a quantum computer that can penetrate all types of encryption used to protect banking, medical, business and other government records stored on computers around the world. India lacks funds for research and development in the field of quantum computing and this problem becomes more serious when about a quarter of India's population is still living below the poverty line. The lack of infrastructure and scientists in India is a major impediment to the development of quantum computing.

In the future, this technology will change the face of our digital world. With its help, a way to solve complex problems can be found. But the government aims to gain an edge in the defence sector through this. However, the use of this technology can be expected to create many possibilities in areas such as health and science, safety, drug manufacturing and industrial manufacturing.

Writer-Pradeep Vaishnav