The White House has issued two executive orders to advance quantum computing in the U.S. and enhance protections against related security threats.
The White House has unveiled two executive orders aimed at advancing the United States' capabilities in quantum computing while enhancing defenses against potential threats from such technologies.
Enhancing Quantum Development
One of the orders, known as Executive Order 14411, focuses on the establishment of large-scale quantum computing capabilities. It directs the Department of Energy to develop at least one advanced quantum computer and mandates the Pentagon to prioritize the deployment of next-generation quantum sensors by 2028.
The initiative, referred to as QC-ADDS, aims to not only create a quantum computer but also ensure its availability to the scientific community. The order specifies that the Secretary of War must identify three priority projects for quantum sensors within 60 days, with the goal of deployment by September 30, 2028.
Strengthening Security Measures
The second order, Executive Order 14409, addresses the potential risks posed by quantum computers to existing encryption standards. It warns that adversaries may be accumulating encrypted data that could be decrypted in the future using quantum computing technology, a concern referred to as the "harvest now, decrypt later" dilemma.
This order sets a timeline for federal agencies to transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), requiring implementation for sensitive systems by the end of 2030 and for digital signatures by the end of 2031. This move aims to safeguard U.S. data against future quantum threats.
Implications for Cryptocurrency
The implications of quantum computing have captured the attention of the cryptocurrency sector, particularly as research suggests that a sufficiently powerful quantum computer could breach the security of Bitcoin and Ethereum. A recent study indicated that breaking the elliptic curve cryptography securing these cryptocurrencies might require fewer than 500,000 physical qubits, a significant reduction from previous estimates.
In response, companies like Google are targeting a transition to post-quantum cryptography by 2029, a timeline mirrored by Ethereum and considered by various blockchain networks, including Bitcoin, to enhance their security measures.
