Bittime - Quantum computing marks a paradigm shift in computing technology. With the ability to solve problems considered impossible by classical computers, quantum computers have the potential to revolutionize the way we process information.
What is Shor's Algortihm?
One of the most famous algorithms, Shor's algorithm, allows quantum computers to factor integers and solve discrete logarithm problems with much higher efficiency than classical computers.
Although quantum computers are not yet large enough to threaten existing cryptographic systems, it is possible that in the future they could break algorithms that are currently considered secure.
Quantum Computing Threats to Cryptography
The Hedera network, like many systems on the internet, relies heavily on cryptography to secure transactions and maintain data integrity. The primary threat posed by quantum computers is to public-key cryptosystems, such as the ed25519 digital signature scheme, which could be completely broken if a quantum computer were able to solve the underlying discrete logarithm problem.
In contrast, symmetric key cryptosystems, such as AES, do not rely on the hard problem and remain secure against Shor's algorithm. However, Grover's algorithm can reduce the security of symmetric key systems, although this can be overcome by increasing the key length.
Hedera follows the CNSA standard used by the US government to protect classified information. This standard requires the use of a minimum of 256-bit AES keys and 384-bit SHA-2 hashes. With these larger key sizes, both AES and SHA-2 are considered secure against future quantum computers.
Also read: Before Buying HBAR Coins, Understand These 7 Points About Hedera
Searching for Cryptographic Alternatives After Quantum Computing
To address the threat from quantum computers, researchers have developed a new public-key cryptography system that does not rely on classical assumptions.
NIST has initiated a competition to standardize post-quantum cryptography algorithms, with the latest announcement on July 5, 2022, including four candidate algorithms: CRYSTALS-Kyber for public-key encryption and CRYSTALS-Dilithium, Falcon, and SPHINCS+ for digital signatures.
This process will take place over the next two years, during which researchers are encouraged to explore the algorithm before it is widely implemented.
Also read: Hedera Hashgraph: Not Your Ordinary Blockchain, Check Out This Explanation!
Challenges of Post Quantum Computing Algorithm Adoption
Although post-quantum algorithms offer better security, they often require larger signature and key sizes compared to ed25519. For example, signatures in the Falcon and CRYSTALS-Dilithium algorithms can be several kilobytes in size, which can pose challenges in terms of storage and bandwidth, especially in systems with high transaction volumes.
In addition, the verification time for this algorithm is also longer than ed25519, which may affect applications that require fast verification.
Preparing for a World Safe from Quantum Computing?
While ed25519 and ECDSA offer good protection against classical attacks, neither has any defense against threats from quantum computers.
Current efforts to develop post-quantum algorithms aim to maintain cryptographic security as quantum technology advances.
With ongoing research, new standards are emerging to address these challenges and ensure a future of cryptography that is safe from quantum threats.
FAQ
1. What is quantum computing and how does it work?
Quantum computing is a type of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information.
Unlike classical computers that use bits to store data, quantum computers use qubits, which can be in multiple states at once.
This allows quantum computers to solve certain problems at much higher speeds than classical computers.
2. Why is quantum computing a threat to cryptography?
Quantum computing can solve the mathematical problems underlying many current cryptographic algorithms, such as integer factorization and discrete logarithms, using algorithms such as Shor's algorithm.
This means that public key cryptosystems, such as ed25519 and ECDSA, can be easily cracked by a sufficiently powerful quantum computer, threatening the security of data and transactions.
3. What steps are taken to address the threats from quantum computing?
Researchers and institutions such as NIST are developing post-quantum cryptography algorithms designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers.
NIST has initiated a competition to standardize these algorithms, including CRYSTALS-Dilithium, Falcon, and SPHINCS+.
Additionally, existing cryptographic systems, such as the one used by Hedera, already implement larger key sizes to increase security against potential future quantum threats.
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Reference
Dr. Leemon Baird, Pratyay Mukherjee & Rohit Sinha, Post Quantum Crypto , Accessed 24 December 2024
Rohit Sinha, Ty "Patches" Smith, Dr. Leemon Baird, Are Ed25519 Keys Quantum-Resistant? Exploring the Future of Cryptography, Accessed 24 December 2024
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