Opening Plenary

Quantum Computing and Post-Quantum Cryptography: Preparing for the Next Era of Cybersecurity

Quantum computing is emerging as a disruptive technology, poised to reimagine how we process data and tackle complex problems. With governments worldwide having announced commitments exceeding $40 billion towards quantum initiatives and $1.9 billion in venture capital invested in 2024, this technology is expected to drive significant advancements across key sectors. It has the potential to revolutionise artificial intelligence, healthcare, and cybersecurity while also transforming manufacturing, finance, and material science. In doing so, quantum computing promises not only new possibilities but also substantial improvements on current optimisation strategies, opening pathways to breakthroughs in drug discovery, secure communications, and supply chain efficiency.

While quantum computers hold the promise of solving computational problems far beyond the capabilities of classical computers, they also pose existential risks to modern cryptographic protocols. Quantum computing threatens to break existing cryptographic systems and introduce untested vulnerabilities. Public key cryptographic algorithms, such as RSA and ECC, which secure over 90% of internet communications, are particularly vulnerable. These cryptographic algorithms, which currently take centuries to break, could become obsolete as quantum computers achieve the capability to break them in minutes. On the other hand, quantum principles offer new security mechanisms, such as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which ensures secure communication through the no-cloning theorem to allow a secret key to be generated and shared, protected from any eavesdropper.

This talk will provide an introduction to quantum computing and its impact for cybersecurity. It will highlight the fascinating properties that define its unique character and will outline what is hype versus what is real for next-generation security, providing a strategic perspective on what needs to be done now to secure critical systems. Quantum science has evolved from a theoretical concept into a transformative driver of technological progress and Ireland’s Quantum 2030 strategy positions the country to lead in quantum research, innovation, and talent development. With the McKinsey Report forecasting over 250,000 new quantum-related roles by 2030, it is important to demystify quantum computing and explore how it may practically affect digital security and support next generation networks.