Quantum computers will mean more secure and efficient communication systems

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) relies on communicating between ‘trusted’ quantum devices (and thus offers the potential for quantum hacking). However, a new approach developed by researchers allows secure communication between devices without needing to know much about them. This important breakthrough paves the way for secure cryptography for real-world devices, and for further quantum information applications based on a principle of device-independence.

Currently, secure cryptographic communication relies on the inability of traditional computers to calculate the prime factors of large numbers. However, as technology advances, future quantum computers will be able to easily solve these problems, rendering current cryptographic protocols obsolete.

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