Archive for the ‘Quantum Computer’ Category

Microsoft Advances in Quantum Computing with Error-Reduction Breakthrough – yTech

In a recent milestone achievement, Microsoft, in coordination with its hardware partner Quantinuum, has reported a significant breakthrough in quantum computing, propelling the technology from a rudimentary stage to a more advanced and dependable phase. The company detailed a success in virtually eliminating computational errors by deploying a qubit-virtualization system in conjunction with Quantinuums ion-trap hardware. The synergy between the two resulted in over 14,000 error-free experiments, allowing the creation of logical qubits that are substantially more reliable than their physical counterparts.

The error rate of logical qubits fashioned by this method is claimed to be 800 times lower than that of the physical qubits, a performance metric that suggests quantum computing has evolved past its initial experimental phase, referred to as Foundation Level 1. Microsoft has now stepped into the Resilient Level 2, leveraging logical qubits to ensure more robust computing operations.

This technological leap is not only impressive in terms of its scientific and engineering aspects but also practical, as Microsoft plans to integrate these advancement features into Azure Quantum Elements services for its subscribers within the next few months. Interested individuals can access intricate details and insights on the Microsoft Azure Quantum Blog.

Microsofts vision for the future of quantum computing reaches beyond the present accomplishment, aiming for Level 3. At this apex, quantum computers could potentially address and resolve complex problems that are currently beyond the capabilities of conventional supercomputers. In a statement to TechCrunch in June 2023, Microsoft expressed expectations of realizing a fully functional quantum computer in under ten years.

Quantum Computing Industry Overview

The field of quantum computing seeks to exploit the peculiar principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways that traditional computers cannot. As demonstrated by Microsoft, significant steps are being made to overcome one of the industrys most challenging issues: error rates in qubits. Qubits, or quantum bits, are the fundamental units of quantum computing and are far more complex than their binary counterparts due to their ability to exist in multiple states simultaneously.

The global quantum computing market is experiencing rapid growth, with forecasts predicting substantial expansion over the next decade. Analysts suggest that the market could reach billions of dollars in value as various industries, including pharmaceuticals, finance, defense, and materials science, seek to unleash the potential of quantum computing. Advancements from tech giants like Microsoft offer encouragement that quantum technology is inching closer to commercial viability.

Market Forecasts

Market analysts project that quantum computing will not only grow in value but will also proliferate across different sectors. As enterprises and research institutions identify problems that can only be solved through quantum computing, demand is expected to surge. The development of more reliable qubit systems, like the virtualized qubits announced by Microsoft, fuels optimism that practical quantum computers could enter the market sooner rather than later.

Industry Issues and Challenges

Despite the enthusiasm, the quantum computing industry grapples with several key issues, chief among them being error correction. Quantum systems are extremely sensitive to external disturbances, which can cause errors in computations, termed as quantum decoherence. Improving qubit fidelity, as Microsoft and Quantinuum have shown, is a significant step toward practical quantum computing.

Another challenge is scalability. Building quantum computers with a sufficient number of qubits to tackle complex problems requires advancements in both hardware and algorithms. Research and development in quantum error correction, cryogenics, and quantum algorithms are ongoing to address these challenges.

Finally, there is the skill gap. The nascent nature of the industry means there is a limited pool of experts who can design and implement quantum solutions. As the sector expands, the demand for quantum-literate engineers and researchers will only increase.

Links and Resources

Readers seeking additional information on the subject may wish to visit these authoritative sources for further reading: Microsoft for insights into their quantum computing advancements and Azure Quantum Elements services. IBM to explore another leader in quantum computing research and cloud services. Google AI Quantum to learn about Googles contributions to the field and their pursuit of quantum supremacy.

To review Microsofts detailed update on their achievement, readers can also refer to the Microsoft Azure Quantum Blog via Microsofts official site. As the quantum landscape continues to evolve, keeping abreast of these technological leaps from market leaders will be crucial for understanding the potential impact on various industries.

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Microsoft Advances in Quantum Computing with Error-Reduction Breakthrough - yTech

Quantinuum and Microsoft Leap towards Quantum Superiority with Noise Reduction Breakthrough – yTech

Quantinuum in collaboration with Microsoft has made substantial progress in the field of quantum computing by dramatically decreasing quantum noise. This development is significant because it addresses a crucial hurdle in quantum computation: the errors caused by noise like temperature fluctuations, electromagnetic fields, and quantum decoherence. Overcoming these obstacles is essential if quantum computers are to outperform classical counterparts.

Describing the breakthrough, Quantinuum reported that their collaborative efforts with Microsoft have led to logical qubits with an exceptionally low error rate, suggesting that quantum advantage may be within closer reach than anticipated. Logical qubits, which are complex constructions made from several physical qubits, help in error detection and correction, and are a cornerstone of fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Microsoft, which has invested heavily in quantum technology, labels the achievement as Level 2 Resilient and is gearing up to integrate these advancements into Azure Quantum Elements for selective customers soon. Although it may still take an array of hundreds of logical qubits to achieve scientific strides and thousands for substantial commercial benefit, this milestone is setting the stage for that future.

Quantinuums statement highlighted over 14,000 successful experiments facilitated by Microsofts innovative qubit virtualization system, showcasing a remarkable stride in quantum computation.

In-field experts deem this advancement a significant stride beyond the NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) era, though direct commercial benefits for cloud customers are yet to be realized. The quest towards a functional quantum supercomputer continues, yet this feat shines as a beacon indicating the path forward, beyond the current quantum limitations.

Quantinuum and Microsofts Leap in Quantum Computing

Quantinuums collaboration with Microsoft represents a notable advancement in the quantum computing industry by making a significant dent in the problem of quantum noise. The reduction of noise is a fundamental step towards the realization of a full-scale quantum computer that could far surpass the capabilities of todays classical computers. The industry itself, which includes key players like IBM, Google, and startups around the globe, is focused on overcoming hurdles like quantum decoherence, error rates, and scalability.

In this rapidly evolving market, Quantinuum and Microsoft have showcased their pursuit of quantum advantagethe point at which quantum computers outperform classical computers on significant and useful problems. With logical qubits achieving exceptionally low error rates, they suggest the potential for practical applications is drawing nearer.

Industry Outlook and Market Forecasts

The global quantum computing market has been forecasted to grow exponentially in the coming years. Analysts project that the market size will reach into the billions by the end of the decade, driven by anticipated advancements and the growing need for superior computing power in fields such as cryptography, materials science, pharmaceuticals, and financial modeling.

Challenges and Issues

While the decrease in quantum noise is a step forward, the industry still faces numerous challenges. Building a quantum computer requires maintaining qubits in a coherent quantum state, which necessitates extremely low temperatures and sophisticated error correction algorithms. Logical qubits are a product of this complexity, signifying a form of quantum error correction thats essential for designing practical, fault-tolerant quantum computers.

Moreover, the quantum computing industry is not just about hardware; there are issues related to the development of quantum algorithms, standardization, and creating a quantum-skilled workforce. On top of these, maintaining cybersecurity in a quantum future is another concern that researchers and industry stakeholders are actively addressing, given the potential for quantum computers to break current encryption schemes.

Despite these challenges, the progression of quantum capabilities is a transformative prospect for computing-intensive tasks. Industries including pharmaceuticals, aerospace, energy, and finance are particularly poised to benefit from quantum advancements, should problems like error correction and quantum noise continue to be addressed effectively.

In the wake of such scientific endeavors, services like Azure Quantum Elements aim to provide a bridge between cutting-edge quantum development and commercial accessibility. Microsofts commitment to integrating quantum computing with its cloud platform resonates with the trend of providing quantum as a service (QaaS), which will likely be the initial mode of access for many businesses.

In conclusion, while the journey towards a fully operational quantum computer continues, the progress made by Quantinuum and Microsoft is a shining example of the positive trajectory that the industry is on. As more milestones are achieved, the reality of quantum computings impact on multiple sectors grows increasingly tangible.

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Quantinuum and Microsoft Leap towards Quantum Superiority with Noise Reduction Breakthrough - yTech

Microsoft and Quantinuum announce development of next-generation technology that reduces ‘noise’ by 800 times … – GIGAZINE

Apr 04, 2024 12:08:00

Quantum computers, which are being developed for practical use in the future, are subject to the possibility of errors occurring in every step from setting the initial state of the qubit to reading the output at the time of article creation, greatly limiting what can be done. I am. On April 3, 2024, Microsoft and quantum computing company

Advancing science: Microsoft and Quantinuum demonstrate the most reliable logical qubits on record with an error rate 800x better than physical qubits - The Official Microsoft Blog https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2024/04/03/advancing-science-microsoft-and-quantinuum-demonstrate-the-most-reliable-logical-qubits-on-record-with-an-error- rate-800x-better-than-physical-qubits/

Quantinuum Partners with Microsoft in New Phase of Reliable Quantum Computing with Breakthrough Demonstration of Reliable Logical Qubits

How Microsoft and Quantinuum achieved reliable quantum computing - Microsoft Azure Quantum Blog https://cloudblogs.microsoft.com/quantum/2024/04/03/how-microsoft-and-quantinuum-achieved-reliable-quantum-computing/

Microsoft and Quantinuum say they've ushered in the next era of quantum computing | TechCrunch https://techcrunch.com/2024/04/03/microsoft-and-quantinuum-say-theyve-ushered-in-the-next-era-of-quantum-computing/

Quantum computers basically use qubits to store and process information. However, physical qubits are prone to errors due to noise, so Traditional quantum computers are severely limited in their usefulness and practicality. To reduce these errors, advanced techniques had to be used to combine multiple physical qubits into reliable virtual qubits called 'logical qubits.'

When you enable logical qubits, you can increase the number of physical qubits to create powerful quantum computers that can perform longer and more complex calculations.

Now, by combining Microsoft's qubit virtualization system and Quantinuum's H2 ion trap qubit processor with a unique quantum charge-coupled device architecture, 30 physical qubits can be reduced to four highly reliable logical qubits. I was able to successfully combine them. Combining multiple physical qubits into one logical qubit allows systems to be protected from errors. According to Microsoft, the new logical qubit was able to run 14,000 independent instances without a single error.

Furthermore, it has been revealed that these logical qubits only cause an error once per 100,000 executions, reducing the error rate to 1/800 of the conventional method using only physical qubits. that's right. According to Jennifer Strubley of Quantinuum, this achievement of ``reducing errors from physical qubits by 800 times'' is the lowest error rate ever.

Microsoft commented on this result, saying, ``Enabling the noise canceling feature of headphones while listening to music while eliminating most of the environmental noise is similar to applying a qubit virtualization system.'' 'Improving error rates is similar to the silence achieved with high-quality noise-canceling headphones.'

On the other hand, the research team revealed that this logical qubit is still in the development stage, saying, ``In order to surpass conventional quantum computers, we need to correct individual circuit errors and create quantum entanglement between at least two logical qubits.'' 'We need to further expand the difference in error rates between logical and physical qubits, as well as the ability to

Still, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said, 'This is an extremely exciting milestone on the path to realizing the scientific and commercial advances that come from reliable quantum computing.' Leave a comment of praise.

'These results are a historic achievement and a great reflection of how our collaboration with Microsoft continues to push the boundaries of the quantum ecosystem,' said Ilyas Khan, founder and chief product officer at Quantinnum. With Microsoft's cutting-edge error correction capabilities, coupled with the world's most powerful quantum computers and a fully integrated approach, we are very excited about the potential for further advances in quantum applications, especially at large scale. We can't wait to see how our customers and partners benefit from Quantinnum's solutions as we move to advanced quantum processors.'

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Microsoft and Quantinuum announce development of next-generation technology that reduces 'noise' by 800 times ... - GIGAZINE

Revolutionizing Quantum Computing: Breakthroughs in Quantum Error Correction – AZoQuantum

Despite their great potential, quantum computers are delicate devices. Unlike classical computers, qubits (the quantum version of bits) are prone to errors from noise and decoherence. Addressing this challenge, Quantum Error Correction (QEC) is a crucial division of quantum computing development that focuses on resolving qubit errors.

Image Credit:Yurchanka Siarhei/Shutterstock.com

The world of atoms and subatomic particles is governed by the laws of quantum mechanics. Quantum computing harnesses these principles, performing calculations in a completely different way from traditional computers.

Regular computers use bits, which can be either 0 or 1. Quantum computers, however, exploit the bizarre property of superposition, allowing qubits to be 0, 1, or both at the same time. The ability to be in multiple states simultaneously enhances the processing power of quantum computers.

Qubits are made from quantum particles like electrons or photons. By controlling properties like electrical charge or spin, data can be represented as 0, 1, or a combination of both. To unlock the true power of quantum computers, scientists rely on two unique properties:

There is no preferred qubit technology; instead, a range of physical systems, such as photons, trapped ions, superconducting circuits, and semiconductor spins, are being investigated for use as qubits.1

All these methods face the common challenge of isolating qubits from external noise, making errors during quantum computation inevitable. In contrast, classical computer bits, realized by the on/off states of transistor switches with billions of electrons, have substantial error margins that virtually eliminate physical defects.

There is no equivalent error-prevention security for quantum computers, where qubits are realized as fragile physical systems. Thus, active error correction is necessary for any quantum computer relying on qubit technology.

In 1995, Peter Shor introduced the first quantum error-correcting method. Shors approach demonstrated how quantum information could be redundantly encoded by entangling it across a larger system of qubits.

Subsequent findings then showed that if specific physical requirements on the qubits themselves are satisfied, extensions to this technique may theoretically be utilized to arbitrarily lower the quantum error rate.

While diverse efforts are being undertaken in the field of QEC, the fundamental approach to QEC implementation involves the following steps.

Quantum information is encoded across several physical, distributed qubits. These qubits act as 'information holders' for a 'logical qubit,' which is more robust and contains the data used for computation.

The logical qubits are then entangled with the physical information holders using a specific QEC code. These additional physical qubits serve as sentinels for the logical qubit.

QEC identifies errors in the encoded data by measuring the information holders using a method that does not affect the data directly in the logical qubit. This measurement provides an indication or a pattern of results that shows the type and location of the error.

Different QEC codes are available for the various types of errors that could occur. Based on the detected error, the chosen QEC system applies an operation to correct the error in the data qubits.

Error correction itself has the potential to generate noise. Therefore, additional physical qubits are required to maintain the delicate balance of correcting errors and limiting the introduction of new ones.

To realize the full potential of a quantum computer, the number of logical qubits has to be increased. However, since each logical qubit requires several physical qubits for error correction, the complexity and resources needed to isolate and manage high-quality qubits become considerable obstacles to scalability.

In recent years, quantum error correction has seen significant advancements, and the community's focus has shifted from noisy applications to the potential uses of early error-corrected quantum computers. Though research on superconducting circuits, reconfigurable atom arrays, and trapped ions has made significant strides, several platform-specific technological obstacles remain to be solved.

Some notable recent advancements in QEC include:

Despite the challenges, QEC is essential for building large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers. Researchers are constantly developing new and improved QEC codes and techniques.

As quantum technology progresses, QEC will play a critical role in unlocking the true potential of this revolutionary field.

More from AZoQuantum: Harnessing Quantum Computing for Breakthroughs in Artificial Intelligence

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the author expressed in their private capacity and do not necessarily represent the views of AZoM.com Limited T/A AZoNetwork the owner and operator of this website. This disclaimer forms part of the Terms and conditions of use of this website.

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Revolutionizing Quantum Computing: Breakthroughs in Quantum Error Correction - AZoQuantum

What Are the Implications of Quantum Computing for the Future of Data Security? – socPub

Quantum computing has the potential to change the data security landscape permanently. In as little as five years, it could make the most relied-upon encryption schemes ineffective making businesses vulnerable to breaches.

Quantum computing can make some of the most common data security measures ineffective. While experts havent reached a consensus on how soon it will happen, many agree it will become an issue within the next few decades.

While one cryptographer admits quantum computers could crack RSA encryption in as little as five years, they also acknowledge their figure is speculative highlighting the importance of proactive action.

Although the uncertainty surrounding quantum computings capabilities suggests businesses shouldnt concern themselves with the possibility of encryption schemes becoming vulnerable, the reality is much different.

Quantum computers streamline decryption. While a classical computer would theoretically take 300 trillion years to crack a 2,048-bit asymmetric key which is essentially equivalent to a 128-bit symmetric key its quantum counterpart could finish within seconds.

Where classical computers rely on binary digits to function, their quantum counterparts use quantum bits qubits instead. Rather than being either a one or a zero, they exist in both states simultaneously due to a quantum mechanical phenomenon known as superposition.

Unlike classical computers, quantum computers can solve complex mathematical equations foundational to encryption. Since superposition enables qubits to exist in two states at once, they can perform multiple operations simultaneously substantially increasing their speed.

Other quantum mechanical phenomena also come into play namely, entanglement and intentional interference. While one syncs qubits states regardless of their distance from one another, the other increases the probability of desired outcomes.

These factors make quantum computers much faster and more accurate than classic computers which is how they can crack standard cryptography algorithms exponentially sooner.

Quantum computings ability to crack the most common cryptography algorithms poses a problem for data security.

Data interception, manipulation and exfiltration will become more frequent as quantum computing advances. Businesses could face tremendous losses since a single breach costs over $4.24 million on average.

The main benefit of encryption is it renders stolen information unusable. For this reason, many businesses have confidence in their data security despite experiencing breaches. Alarmingly, quantum computing could enable threat actors to decrypt anything they still possess.

Cybercriminals often keep the encrypted data theyve stolen even though its unreadable in the hope it will be useful someday. If quantum computing enables them to suddenly interpret it, they could cause unfathomable damage to an untold number of unsuspecting businesses.

While many cybercriminals will likely use quantum computing to steal data, others will use it to intercept and view sensitive information. This way, they gather critical intel to launch successful man-in-the-middle, credential-based and malware attacks.

Only some businesses will have enough capital to invest in special-purpose equipment. Most will have to make sacrifices to maintain data protection for compliance purposes. Compensating for budgetary constraints will likely leave them with security gaps.

The infrastructure costs of special-purpose equipment and the likely uptick in attack frequency will contribute to shrinking cybersecurity budgets. Even if businesses can afford to contribute additional funds toward post-quantum security, it still limits their budgets flexibility.

Businesses can only reliably defend against quantum-computing-led cyberattacks and data breaches if they leverage special-purpose equipment most of which have high initial investment costs. Although increased cybersecurity spending may sound positive, seasoned business and IT professionals know it means increased scrutiny and less room for error.

Theoretically, most businesses wont be able to adequately defend against quantum computing attacks. These machines can crack 128-bit encryption one of the most common symmetric cryptographic algorithms meaning most businesses current data security is likely lacking. Even if they have other defenses in place, they may be unable to protect themselves.

Since quantum computers can crack a 128-bit encryption equivalent in mere seconds, businesses will have to rely on their other data security methods meaning human error, missed patches and security gaps will pose a much more significant risk. If threat actors enter a system or network, theres a nearly 100% chance they can use whatever information they can access.

A multilayered solution becomes increasingly crucial the closer quantum computing comes to cracking cryptography. Strategic businesses can maintain their security posture and protect their data.

Quantum key distribution leverages quantum mechanical properties to generate a cryptographic key, enabling two parties to encrypt and decrypt data securely. Additionally, some research suggests it can mitigate man-in-the-middle attacks like eavesdropping.

Post-quantum cryptography involves algorithms that are resistant to quantum computers. While the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is set to standardize four by the end of 2024, countless other researchers are developing their own.

Businesses that leverage quantum key distribution and post-quantum cryptography will have a better chance against quantum attacks. This combination outperforms classical encryption algorithms by 117%, according to one study.

IT professionals must make their storage systems inaccessible if quantum computing makes any accessible data forfeit to threat actors. The principle of least privilege minimizes insider threats and mitigates unauthorized access attempts, making it one of the best options.

Quantum computers are exorbitantly expensive, so common cybercriminals wont have access to one. The operating conditions alone make the technology inaccessible to them. For example, quantum processors must operate at -459 degrees Fahrenheit because qubits are extremely sensitive to vibrations. Classical computers are less valuable but can run at room temperature.

Moreover, a few experts have shed doubt on quantum computings decryption abilities. Some claim it would take 1 million qubits to reliably crack RSA encryption. Considering the largest existing machine has only a few hundred qubits, businesses shouldnt worry excessively.

Although various researchers claim theyve been able to crack strong RSA keys with a few hundred qubits, their machines arent precise enough to achieve reliable success. Relying on so few qubits means they would need a near 100% accuracy rate which even cutting-edge quantum computing technology hasnt achieved because theyre too sensitive.

Still, not every cybercriminal needs a quantum computer. Even if only a handful of individuals have one, they can do a massive amount of damage. Besides, cybercrime is lucrative more than enough threat actors would be willing to pay for access to crack a businesss encryption. Decryption-as-a-service is a possibility.

Additionally, the possibility of these machines cracking cryptography is concerning enough that NIST has stepped in and even held multiple rounds of competition and feedback to develop quantum-resistant algorithms. Although quantum attacks wont happen within this decade, the fact they have potential should prompt businesses to act.

Businesses must engage in preventive planning to protect their sensitive, personally identifiable and proprietary data from cybercriminals. Whether attacks become a possibility in five years or five decades, proactive action is critical.

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What Are the Implications of Quantum Computing for the Future of Data Security? - socPub