Bitcoin Encryption and Quantum Computers (D-Wave)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the capabilities of D-Wave's quantum computers, particularly the D-Wave Two model, in relation to Bitcoin's encryption. Participants highlight that while D-Wave's technology is advanced, it is not a true quantum computer capable of breaking encryption algorithms like SHA-512 used in Bitcoin. Experts, including Professor Umesh Vazirani, assert that even with more qubits, D-Wave's systems may not surpass classical computers in general-purpose tasks. The consensus is that Bitcoin's security is primarily derived from its blockchain technology, which remains robust against current quantum computing capabilities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum computing principles, specifically D-Wave's adiabatic quantum computing.
  • Knowledge of cryptographic algorithms, particularly SHA-512.
  • Familiarity with blockchain technology and its role in cryptocurrency security.
  • Basic concepts of classical versus quantum computing performance metrics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the limitations of D-Wave's quantum computers compared to traditional computing methods.
  • Explore advancements in quantum algorithms, particularly Shor's algorithm and its implications for encryption.
  • Investigate the future of quantum computing and its potential impact on internet security protocols.
  • Learn about alternative cryptographic methods that could enhance Bitcoin's security against quantum threats.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for cryptographers, blockchain developers, cybersecurity professionals, and anyone interested in the intersection of quantum computing and cryptocurrency security.

FallingMan
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Hi,

Not sure if this is the right place to post this but...

I understand that D-Wave has a developed an adiabetic quantum computer. Google and Lockheed Martin have both purchased these computers from D-Wave recently.

Could such a quantum computer (or perhaps future versions of it with more qubits) crack Bitcoin's encryption? I don't really understand enough about quantum mechanics or cryptography, which is why I'm asking PF people here :P

Thanks a lot!
FM
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • [Genuine] quantum computers are still under development.
  • D-Wave Two is most probably not a real 512 qubit quantum computer.
  • D-Wave One costs $10,000,000.
  • D-Wave is constructed to solve a specific problem.
  • Professor Umesh Vazirani [one of the founders of quantum complexity theory] stated – “even if it can be scaled to thousands of qubits, would likely not be more powerful than a cell phone”.
  • Scientists from ETH Zurich that had access to a 128 qbit D-Wave computer outperformed it by a factor of 15 using regular digital computers.
  • The SHA-512 in Bitcoin can be replaced/reinforced.
  • The real strength in Bitcoin is the transactions block chain, distributed over the entire network.
  • Bitcoin is typically for minor transactions, not millionaire deposits.
  • If/when a genuine quantum computer is commercial available, you better watch out for your Visa card and bank account – all internet security [https] will be compromised.

Don't Worry Be Happy. :smile:

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=191
 
The answer is no.
The D-Wave computer (the 512 bit version) does indeed seem to be much faster than a classical computer for very specific problems (mainly optimization), but it is not a "normal" quantum computer and you can't run Shore's algorithm on it. Hence, it can't be used for code breaking (it seems to very good at image recognition, which is why Google is interested).

Note, however, that there mere fact that it actually does seem to work well enough for real applications is quite cool:-p
 

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