Cyber security experts face a tough challenge from the new type of quantum computers capable of easily breaking through security codes. Quantum computers, based on principles of quantum physics instead of standard electronic systems, are still nascent and do not have enough processing power to crack encryption keys. However, the experts at QDex Labs believe that the threat from quantum computers could become real shortly. Therefore, they are ready with the new standard of security system that protects computer systems from existing cyber threats and the security threats posed by quantum computers.
How cryptography works
Cryptographic solid protocols have been working well to protect computer systems from cyber threats. The principle of encryption relies on a series of complex mathematical formulas that can render an original piece of information unreadable by converting it into something that looks like gibberish. The digital ciphers can encrypt all types of data effectively, maintaining confidentiality and ensuring total data safety.
All data remain encrypted during storage and transmission and protect systems from any harm to data, thereby enhancing the confidence of all stakeholders.
Types of encryption
There are two main types of cryptography – symmetric and asymmetric or public key.
- Symmetric encryption – Using the same key for encrypting and decrypting data is how symmetric encryption works. Encryption is speedy and widely used to encrypt all stored data and communications.
- Public-key cryptography – This type of cryptography uses a pair of keys linked mathematically. One of the keys remains with the people who encrypt messages for the owner of the other critical team, while the owner has a different key to help decrypt messages. This cryptography helps sign documents, notes, and certificates by linking the owner’s identity with the public keys.
The mathematics behind the two types of cryptography is different, which impacts security. Almost all internet applications use both types of cryptography to ensure comprehensive data and system security.
The threat from quantum computers
While everything is fine with the existing encryption methods, scientists fear that rapid technological advancements in quantum computing could break the codes and rupture the shield of encryption that protects data securely.
It is almost impossible for conventional computers to break codes, as it would take considerable time and effort for a symmetric 64-bit key. To break codes, it is necessary to try all possible keys, which run into thousands, to find the one that can do the trick. For decoding 128-bit keys, one must try innumerable combinations to arrive at the correct key, which is practically impossible and not even worth it. Therefore, making keys longer can create a solid defense of more robust encryption with no chance of breaking.
However, the threat looms large when dealing with quantum computers that use Grover’s algorithm as the computing method.
The computer is so speedy that it can conveniently transform a 128-bit key into a 64-bit one in terms of the quantum-computational equivalent. The solution lies in creating longer keys, such as 256-bit, which offers the same security as 128-bit quantum computing.
