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Quantum computing is advancing, with giants like Google and IBM providing services, yet challenges remain due to insufficient qubits and their susceptibility to external influences, requiring complex entanglement for reliable results. Photonic approaches offer room temperature operation and faster speeds, but face loss issues; however, a novel method demonstrated by researchers uses laser pulses to create inherently error-correcting logical qubits, simplifying quantum computing but still needing improvements in error tolerance.

Significant advancements have been made in quantum computing, with major international companies like Google and IBM now providing quantum computing services via the cloud. Nevertheless, quantum computers are not yet capable of addressing issues that arise when conventional computers hit their performance ceilings. This limitation is primarily the availability of qubits or quantum bits, i.e., the basic units of quantum information, is still insufficient.

One of the reasons for this is that bare qubits are not of immediate use for running a quantum algorithm. While the binary bits of customary computers store information in the form of fixed values of either 0 or 1, qubits can represent 0 and 1 at one and the same time, bringing probability as to their value into play. This is known as quantum superposition.

This makes them very susceptible to external influences, which means that the information they store can readily be lost. In order to ensure that quantum computers supply reliable results, it is necessary to generate a genuine entanglement to join together several physical qubits to form a logical qubit. Should one of these physical qubits fail, the other qubits will retain the information. However, one of the main difficulties preventing the development of functional quantum computers is the large number of physical qubits required.

Many different concepts are being employed to make quantum computing viable. Large corporations currently rely on superconducting solid-state systems, for example, but these have the disadvantage that they only function at temperatures close to absolute zero. Photonic concepts, on the other hand, work at room temperature.

The creation of a photonic Schrdinger cat state in other words the quantum superposition of states of the laser pulse amplitude that can be distinguished on a macroscopic scale (white or black cat) can only be achieved using the most advanced quantum optical techniques and has already been demonstrated to be possible. In the present experiment that is subject of the research paper, it proved to be feasible to extend this to three states (white, gray, and black cats). This light state thus approaches a logical quantum state in which errors can be, in principle, universally corrected. Credit: Peter van Loock

Single photons usually serve as physical qubits here. These photons, which are, in a sense, tiny particles of light, inherently operate more rapidly than solid-state qubits but, at the same time, are more easily lost. To avoid qubit losses and other errors, it is necessary to couple several single-photon light pulses together to construct a logical qubit as in the case of the superconductor-based approach.

Researchers of the University of Tokyo together with colleagues from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) in Germany and Palack University Olomouc in the Czech Republic have recently demonstrated a new means of constructing a photonic quantum computer. Rather than using a single photon, the team employed a laser-generated light pulse that can consist of several photons.

Our laser pulse was converted to a quantum optical state that gives us an inherent capacity to correct errors, stated Professor Peter van Loock of Mainz University. Although the system consists only of a laser pulse and is thus very small, it can in principle eradicate errors immediately.

Thus, there is no need to generate individual photons as qubits via numerous light pulses and then have them interact as logical qubits. We need just a single light pulse to obtain a robust logical qubit, added van Loock.

To put it in other words, a physical qubit is already equivalent to a logical qubit in this system a remarkable and unique concept. However, the logical qubit experimentally produced at the University of Tokyo was not yet of a sufficient quality to provide the necessary level of error tolerance. Nonetheless, the researchers have clearly demonstrated that it is possible to transform non-universally correctable qubits into correctable qubits using the most innovative quantum optical methods.

Reference: Logical states for fault-tolerant quantum computation with propagating light by Shunya Konno, Warit Asavanant, Fumiya Hanamura, Hironari Nagayoshi, Kosuke Fukui, Atsushi Sakaguchi, Ryuhoh Ide, Fumihiro China, Masahiro Yabuno, Shigehito Miki, Hirotaka Terai, Kan Takase, Mamoru Endo, Petr Marek, Radim Filip, Peter van Loock and Akira Furusawa, 18 January 2024, Science. DOI: 10.1126/science.adk7560

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Quantum Computing Breakthrough: Scientists Develop New Photonic Approach That Works at Room Temperature - SciTechDaily

Quantum computing is one of the most potentially transformative areas of computer research happening today. An interdisciplinary team at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, under the leadership ofDon Towsley, Distinguished Professor in the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS), is helping to lead the charge toward thisnext era of computing. Towsley and his UMass colleagues in CICS and the College of Engineering are responsible fordesigning the infrastructure to support future city-scale quantum networks, an effort overseen by theCenter for Quantum Networks, a $26 million, five-year, renewable effort led by the University of Arizona, one of the National Science Foundations engineering research centers.

Quantum computing differs fundamentally from the bit-based computing we all do every day. A bit is typically expressed as a 0 or a 1 and represents an electrical current that is either off or on. Bits are the basis for all the software, web sites and emails that make up our electronic world. Even the simplest digital artifacts are composed of thousands of them: this story, for instance, contains more than 170,000 bits.

By contrast, quantum computing relies on quantum bits, or qubits, which are like regular bits except that they represent particles in a quantum state. Matter in a quantum state behaves very differently, which means that qubits arent relegated to being only 0s or 1s, offor on.

That difference in their behavior opens up a range of possibilities in computingthough they are not magical, points outStefan Krastanov, assistant professor of information and computer sciences at UMass Amherst and one of the researchers helping to design the quantum network. For many computing problems, quantum computers are no more powerful than conventional ones, he says. However, for a growing family of important problems like drug discovery, cryptography and scientific simulations, only quantum algorithms have a chance of providing solutions.

One of the stranger aspects of the quantum state is that matter can be entangled. The game of pool is a helpful analogy here. In our everyday world, a cue ball smacking into the three ball will send the three ball into the corner pocket. But in a quantum world, the three ball could be entangled with, say, the eight ball, and when the cue hits the three, both the three and the eight will react in exactly the same way simultaneously, even though nothing touched the eight ball.

Entangling quantum computers over a quantum internet could provide unparalleled digital securityone of the main applications of the Center for Quantum Networks researchas well as vastly increase the computing power of todays most powerful machines.

But for any of this to happen, there needs to be a secure quantum network that can link quantum computers and transmit entangled qubits. The problem, says Towsley, is that quantum informationthose qubitsis incredibly fragile, and very sensitive to environmental noise, such as heat. This requires the careful design of a network architecture, algorithms and protocols to protect against this noise.

Towsley and his UMass colleagues, including Krastanov andFilip Rozpedek, assistant professor of information and computer science;as well asTaqi Raza, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering in the College of Engineering;are working out how to send qubits securely without the risk of loss or decay. Its a problem that requires expertise in both computer science and engineering, because, as Raza, whose expertise is in critical infrastructure security, puts it, security cuts across all the various specialties that must contribute to a successful quantum network. We are working to embed security principles in quantum networks from the start.

Quantum computing is not just an advance intechnology, saysLaura Haas, Donna M. and Robert J. Manning Dean of CICS. Its a paradigm shift in how we process information. Were proud contributors to this thrilling journeytousherin the next era of computing.NSFs recognition ofUMass Amherstas a key hubin the Northeastamplifiesour sense of pride and highlights the significant roleour talented researchersplay in advancing the field.

And theres more to come. Thanks to aseed fund created by anonymous donors, including a gift of $5 million, Towsley is leading the creation of a UMass Amherst Center of Excellence to support research in quantum information systems that will work to develop a quantum internet and to provide network security to connect quantum computers.

Our role as a core institution in the NSF Center for Quantum Networks is part of a broader, growing interdisciplinary initiative in quantum information systems here at UMass, involving faculty and researchers in CICS, electrical and computer engineering, and physics in the College of Natural Sciences, saysSanjay Raman, dean of the College of Engineering. Between the three colleges, we have nine core faculty in the quantum information systems area, working on everything from quantum materials, devices and circuits to algorithms and security, and many others who are helping to explore the science and applications of the quantumworld.

Source:https://www.umass.edu/

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UMass Amherst Researchers Join $26 M Quantum Computing Effort to Build Internet of the Future - AZoQuantum

To promote and celebrate World Quantum Day on Monday 15 April the University of Aberdeen is running an online event to raise awareness of, and demonstrate, the transformative power of quantum computing.

Quantum physics is the most fundamental theory we have to describeNature at the level of the elementary particles and forces that constitute our Universe. Join us, as we explore the many dimensions of the quantum realm.

The event is broad and non-technical in nature, and will be of interest to anyone considering a Computing Science degree at any level, or with an interest in the topic generally.

Participants will have the chance to experience first-hand some of the exciting phenomena of the quantum world such as entanglement, superposition, and many more.

Furthermore, participants will gain an understanding of how quantum computing advances and algorithms can be adapted to enrich and further progress existing classical computing problems.

Quantum computing is an exciting future technology that will allow us to solve problems that are effectively impossible for the "classical" computers we use today. These computers have a lot in common with those we know and love, but have special capabilities harnessing the world of quantum entanglement and superposition to solve certain problems in a fraction of the time.

But don't expect to see your laptop replaced by a quantum computer any time soon! They are so sensitive to magnetic and electrical interference that they must be kept inside purpose-built chambers that chill them to near absolute zero temperatures.

Companies such as IBM, Google and Amazon have already built quantum computers, however, and researchers the world over are now beginning their journey toward realising the full potential of this bleeding edge technology, with game-changing applications in machine learning, finance, security, medical research and much more.

Sign up now for this free event to learn and ask questions on this exciting new technology.

Registration is free of charge, please sign up using the link below:

Add this event to your calendar application

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Quantum Computing for Everyone | Events | What's On | The University of Aberdeen - University of Aberdeen

The advent of quantum computing is poised to revolutionize the landscape of cyber attacks. Although not yet fully realized, its imminent arrival warrants keen observation and preparedness for its potential impact on computer security.

The World Economic Forum has recently released the Quantum Readiness Toolkit in 2023, which delves into the rapid progression of quantum development, the proliferation of quantum computers, and the cybersecurity risks they pose. In parallel, the European Policy Centre also unveiled its quantum security agenda in the same year, placing the quantum dialogue squarely within the realm of security concerns. Quantum technology holds the potential to revolutionize various aspects, including cybersecurity.

Martin Potgieter, Co-Founder and Technical Director at Nclose in Cape Town, South Africa, believes that the emergence of quantum computers will revolutionize the landscape of cyber warfare. He states, It will change how computers will be used to attack and defend, potentially cracking cryptographic algorithms at speed. Despite their current experimental and impractical nature, Potgieter anticipates that quantum computers, once mainstream, will bring about exponentially greater computing power.

Professor Bruce Watson, the Director of the

Computational Thinking for AI Group at the Centre for AI Research (CAIR) in Stellenbosch University, South Africa, emphasizes the complexity and high cost associated with building quantum computers. He highlights the need for facilities with liquid nitrogen or liquid helium cooling and vibration-proof infrastructure, which can amount to over $100 million for the lab. Watson also draws a parallel, stating that quantum computing is currently at a stage similar to where classical computing was in the 1960s.

Globally, not just in Africa, some major players in the technology industry are investing heavily in quantum computing. However, the technology and its capabilities are still reminiscent of the grainy photographs of massive computers and stacks of floppy discs from over 70 years ago. The key difference now is that countries like the United States and China have the financial resources to lead the quantum computing initiative.

In Africa, several research labs are currently engaged in quantum experimentation, but none have the capability to build fully functional quantum computers, Watson explains. The primary limitation is the cost involved. Despite the presence of highly skilled scientists and mathematicians who are steadily developing expertise on the continent, we anticipate relying on overseas facilities for the foreseeable future.

Nevertheless, it remains crucial to prioritize quantum security on the continent. Similar to the unforeseen consequences of the first computer virus, the Creeper, released in 1971, the advent of quantum computers in the future will bring unexpected challenges.

Potgieter notes that this issue is not specific to any particular region. He suggests that the Southern African Development Community and the African Union should consider prioritizing quantum security on their agenda, if they havent already done so. Despite the numerous challenges facing Africa, this topic warrants high-level discussion due to its significance and complexity.

In the near future, it is highly probable that industries such as finance and healthcare, which stand to gain significantly from the potential of quantum technology, will seek to establish and adhere to protocols and guidelines to safeguard their interests.

According to Jean-Francois Bobier, Partner and Vice President of Deep Tech at Boston Consulting Group, the current regulatory landscape in Africa lacks specific regulations for the banking sector. In Morocco, initial efforts are being spearheaded by prominent banking groups like Attijariwafa Bank, although central banks are facing challenges in enforcing Transport Layer Security (TLS) with traditional cipher algorithms.

It is likely that Africa will adopt the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines, which are based in the US, and we anticipate that they will mandate the transition to post-quantum cryptography by 2025, he comments. We expect this transition to resemble the Y2K situation, but potentially more challenging due to the widespread use of cryptography, inadequate documentation, and instances of hard-coded applications and certificates.

Quantum security in Africa may not be as advanced as in other regions, but it is recognized as an important facet of computation in the future. Steven Cohen, Managing Director of Triple S Solutions, emphasizes the significance of this issue, stating that the continents diverse economic and technological landscape will lead different countries to engage with quantum security at varying paces and levels of intensity. Given the global nature of digital security and communication, quantum security is a conversation worth having.

Over the next five years, quantum technology is not expected to become mainstream in Africa, but the foundational work undertaken during this period will play a crucial role in shaping the future of quantum technology on the continent.

As Watson asserts, there is a notable absence of significant post-quantum cryptography initiatives or quantum security efforts aimed at developing new algorithms. While there are advocates in Africa emphasizing the necessity for post-quantum cryptography, the majority have yet to realize the urgency of taking proactive measures at present.

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Quantum Computing in Africa: A Journey to the 1960s Era - Tech in Africa

SAN FRANCISCO, March 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --Delinea,a leading provider of solutions that seamlessly extend Privileged Access Management (PAM),today announced industry-first innovation to protect organizations from threats in the post-quantum computing era with the availability of quantum-safe encryption of secrets and credentials on the Delinea Platform. Aligned to NIST standards, quantum-safe encryption on Secret Server empowers organizations to secure critical credentials from being compromised by quantum computers with one of the four NIST-recommended asymmetric algorithms, CRYSTALS-Kyber.

According to the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), "Quantum computing opens up exciting new possibilities; however, the consequences of this new technology include threats to the current cryptographic standards that ensure data confidentiality and integrity and support key elements of network security." The increased financial investment into quantum technology reached $2.35 billion in 2022, making the prospect of a usable quantum computermore of a potential reality than a futuristic vision. Organizations are encouraged to start preparing for the implementation of post-quantum cryptography and a quantum-readiness roadmap.

Quantum-safe encryption of secrets and credentials in the company's SaaS vault is the latest forward-thinking innovation available on the Delinea Platformto disrupt the status quo. This innovation is an example of usable security integrated into existing Privileged Access Management workflows, effectively reducing the risks associated with quantum computing.

"As quantum computers advance, we see the potential vulnerabilities with existing encryption methods posing a significant risk to data security," said Phil Calvin, Chief Product Officer at Delinea. "Quantum-safe encryption addresses this concern with NIST-recommended algorithms that can resist attacks from both classical and quantum computers."

Mitigating the Risk of Encryption-Busting Attacks

Quantum computers are predicted to have the capability to break many of the encryption algorithms currently used by organizations to secure sensitive data and communications. Quantum-safe encryption combats this concern by ensuring the long-term security of sensitive data, government communications, financial transactions, healthcare records, and other critical information assets. Incorporating quantum-safe encryption into an organization's privileged account security strategy ensures that data remains secure even when quantum computers are available.

Delinea's quantum-safe encryption leverages one of the four NIST-recommended asymmetric algorithms, CRYSTALS-Kyber, and is designed to protect an organization's most sensitive secrets with the least amount of user impact. The new QuantumLock feature, an upgrade of the current DoubleLock capability, serves as an additional layer of security for secrets to protect access, including privileged access for PAM solution administrators. This encryption will ensure valuable data is protected today and tomorrow, aligning with recommendations by CISA and NIST.

Quantum-safe encryption is available for Secret Server now on the Delinea Platform.

For more information, visit delinea.com/products.

About Delinea Delinea is a leading provider of Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions for the modern, hybrid enterprise. The Delinea Platform seamlessly extends PAM by providing authorization for all identities, granting access to an organization's most critical hybrid cloud infrastructure and sensitive data to help reduce risk, ensure compliance, and simplify security. Delinea removes complexity and defines the boundaries of access for thousands of customers worldwide. Our customers range from small businesses to the world's largest financial institutions, intelligence agencies, and critical infrastructure companies.Learn more about Delinea onLinkedIn,Twitter, andYouTube.

Delinea Inc. 2024. Delineais a trademark of Delinea Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Contacts: Brad Shewmake Delinea [emailprotected] +1-408-625-4191

John Kreuzer Lumina Communications [emailprotected] +1-408-963-6418

SOURCE Delinea

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Delinea Announces Industry-First Quantum-Safe Encryption to Secure Privileged Accounts in the Post-Quantum ... - PR Newswire