Quantum Computing Threatens Data Encryption: Are You Ready?

Data center cybersecurity managers have been warned for years about the impending arrival of quantum computing and its ability to break current encryption methods. Now that early versions of these next-generation computers are accessible to the public and governments, it's time to take action and prepare for the quantum revolution. Quantum computers are exceptionally good at certain calculations, such as factoring large numbers. This just happens to be one of the cornerstones of Internet encryption. The arrival of practical quantum computing will render most current-day encryption instantly obsolete, putting sensitive data at risk. Companies like IBM, Google, Fujitsu, HPE, IonQ, Rigetti, Xanadu, and D-Wave are already developing quantum computers, but real-world benefits are yet to be experienced. So, how close are we to quantum computing becoming a reality? Analysts' opinions vary, with some suggesting quantum value could be reached within the next five years, while others believe it could take 10 to 20 years. Regardless of the timeframe, it's crucial for data center cybersecurity managers to be aware and take appropriate steps to protect their data. Researchers are already working on next-generation, quantum-safe encryption algorithms to ensure that by the time quantum computers can threaten our data, we'll have ways to protect it.