Evaluating Quantum Cybersecurity: A Comparative Study of Advanced Encryption Methods

Abstract

The emergence of quantum computing presents unprecedented challenges to cybersecurity, particularly in encryption. With digital platforms crucial for communication, commerce, and data storage, the rise of sophisticated cyber threats underscores the need for robust encryption. Traditional methods like RSA, AES, and ECC are now vulnerable to quantum algorithms such as Shor's algorithm, which can resolve complex mathematical problems exponentially faster than classical algorithms. This study delves into the principles of quantum computing— qubits, superposition, and entanglement and their implications for current encryption standards. It evaluates advanced solutions like Quantum-Key-Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum-Cryptography (PQC), assessing their potential to secure digital communications against quantum threats. Through a detailed literature review and comparative analysis, the study highlights the critical need for quantum-resistant cryptographic methods and explores the challenges of their implementation. The findings emphasize the importance of future research in developing more efficient quantum cryptographic protocols, overcoming technical and practical hurdles, and fostering international cooperation for global standardization. These efforts are vital to ensuring secure digital communications in the rapidly evolving quantum landscape.