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4th Myth: Quantum Computers Need An Insane Amount of Cooling!

The energy requirements of quantum computers depend primarily on the qubits used, as we have learned. Quantum processors that use nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond substrates (NV centers) as qubits, for example, do not require energy-guzzling cooling. This is because the stable lattice of carbon atoms means that the necessary quantum properties are maintained even at room temperature, notes Mattingley-Scott. Superconducting qubits, on the other hand, have to be cooled to near absolute zero using a cryogenic cooling system, which consumes large amounts of electricity.

Myth 5: More Qubits Means More Quantum Computer Power!

The number of qubits is one of the most important key figures in quantum computing. The state space doubles with each qubit—so the whole thing grows exponentially. This also means that two states can be represented with one qubit, four states with two qubits, 212 states with 12 qubits, i.e. 4096 states, and almost 4.3 billion states with "only" 32 qubits. However, there is one important detail to note in this context! This is because we are always talking about qubits that are linked together and combine computing power through "cooperation". According to Mattingley-Scott, various parameters such as coherence time (how long do the different qubits "work" together?) and fidelity (how precise are the operations on the quantum computer?) play a central role in ensuring that this cooperation works.

Myth 6: In the Future, We Will Only Need Quantum Computers!

Quantum computers will never completely replace conventional systems, states the expert. Classical arithmetic operations such as the multiplication of large numbers work much better on binary computers. However, when it comes to prime factorization of large numbers, for example, quantum computers outperform normal computers because they work much more efficiently when they use the so-called Shor algorithm. The most likely scenario is hybrid systems in which quantum computers are used as accelerators to support conventional computers with certain calculations.

Myth 7: Quantum Computers Replace Conventional Encryption Methods

Depending on the definition of "soon" this is possible, one should bear in mind that if there is no fundamental breakthrough in the next five years, the replacement of conventional encryption could still take several decades. This makes the further development of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) all the more important. This is because its cryptographic building blocks and processes (primitives) cannot be decrypted even with quantum computers, in contrast to most of the asymmetric cryptosystems currently in use, according to Mattingley-Scott. Corresponding "PQC key exchange" procedures already exist, as do a number of legal initiatives. For example, the EU recommends that its member states develop a coordinated implementation roadmap to secure critical infrastructure by the end of 2030 at the latest.

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