Beyond quantum computing: exploring real-world applications of quantum technology
In 2024, I started down the rabbit hole of quantum computing and discovered a warren. There is an extraordinary amount to unpack on this subject, and the deeper I delved, the more I realised just how vast the quantum landscape truly is.
Quantum isn’t just the future — it’s the present. And it’s here to stay.
One of the first things that struck me is how, for most of us, the word ‘quantum’ is almost synonymous with ‘quantum computing’. It’s the poster child of quantum technology, grabbing headlines with promises of solving problems practically impossible for classical computers. But quantum technology goes far beyond computing. It stretches into cybersecurity, sensing, and communications, each offering ground-breaking applications already making an impact.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Steve Takhar, Chief Revenue Officer at Quside Technologies SL. Steve introduced me to Quside’s Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) — a technology that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to strengthen cybersecurity systems.
At the heart of cybersecurity lies randomness — the ability to generate encryption keys so unpredictable that even the most advanced attackers cannot crack them. Traditional encryption systems rely on classical random number generators mathematically generated thereby inherently deterministic, which are, in reality, pseudo-random. Given enough computational power and time, these systems can theoretically be broken.
QRNGs which are inherently non-deterministic address this vulnerability by tapping into the inherent randomness of quantum mechanics. Steve Takhar explained that Quside’s technology employs a phase-diffusion process in semiconductor lasers to generate true randomness, creating non-repeatable and unpredictable results.
This randomness isn’t just mathematically generated; it’s physics-based, which makes it fundamentally secure.
One of the standout advantages of Quside’s QRNG technology is its seamless integration into existing cybersecurity infrastructures. It’s not a rip-and-replace solution, but rather an overlay technology that enhances resilience without causing disruption. Banks, government institutions, and major technology providers are already embedding QRNGs into their systems to future-proof encryption standards and safeguard against emerging threats, including the ominous “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks.
The looming threat of Q-Day — the day when quantum computers will be capable of breaking widely used encryption algorithms — has accelerated global efforts to develop Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). Organisations like NIST (the National Institute of Standards and Technology) in the US have already published standards for quantum-safe algorithms.
It’s important to note that PQC and quantum cryptography are fundamentally different. While PQC relies on classical algorithms designed to withstand quantum decryption, quantum cryptography leverages quantum technologies — such as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) — to ensure unbreakable security.
QKD represents a revolutionary advancement in secure information transfer. Using quantum mechanics to distribute encryption keys, QKD ensures that any attempt to eavesdrop on the communication is instantly detected. Steve shared that Quside is actively working with its QKD partners to support the integration of QKD into critical infrastructure, fortifying systems against future quantum threats for both institutions and governments.
Beyond cybersecurity, quantum sensing is another quantum innovation that is making waves. Quantum sensors exploit principles like superposition and entanglement to measure physical properties such as temperature, magnetic fields, and gravitational anomalies with unprecedented precision.
For example:
- NV (nitrogen-vacancy) centres in diamonds: These tiny imperfections in a diamond’s crystal lattice are susceptible to magnetic and electric fields, enabling applications in advanced medical imaging and geological surveys.
- Atom interferometry: This technology uses ultra-cold atoms to detect gravitational anomalies, aiding in underground mapping and precision navigation.
- Quantum gravimeters: These devices can detect minute gravitational changes, helping scientists uncover hidden underground structures or natural resources.
These sensors are already finding applications in fields such as:
- Healthcare: Early detection of neurological diseases through advanced imaging techniques.
- Geology: Improved identification of subterranean resources.
- Navigation: GPS-independent systems, crucial for defence and aerospace.
- Climate science: Accurate monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions and environmental changes.
Quantum sensing is redefining precision measurement, offering insights previously unattainable with classical technologies.
Interestingly, quantum technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly intersecting. AI is being used to optimise quantum algorithms, while quantum technologies show promise in enhancing AI capabilities.
This synergy is expected to unlock advancements in:
- Drug discovery: Faster simulations of molecular interactions.
- Climate modelling: Improved predictions and simulations.
- Financial risk analysis: Enhanced modelling for financial scenarios.
Quantum and AI are set to become powerful allies, driving innovation across industries.
While quantum computing might remain the domain of governments and hyperscalers for now, other quantum technologies — QRNGs and sensors — are already reaching enterprise-level adoption.
Steve Takhar predicts that many organisations are more likely to consume quantum technologies through cloud-based platforms rather than perhaps owning on-premise hardware. Companies like Equinix are already acting as intermediaries, making quantum technologies accessible via cloud infrastructures.
So, the next time someone mentions “quantum”, don’t just think of computers. Think of unbreakable encryption, ground-breaking medical imaging, and networks secured by the laws of physics.
Quantum isn’t just the future — it’s the present. And it’s here to stay.
About the author
Dave Wallace is a user experience and marketing professional who has spent the last 30 years helping financial services companies design, launch and evolve digital customer experiences.
He is a passionate customer advocate and champion and a successful entrepreneur. All opinions are his own – feel free to debate and comment below!
Follow him on X at @davejvwallace and connect with him on LinkedIn.
