How Quantum Computing Differs from Classical Computing

Despite being in its infancy, quantum computing has numerous potential applications in modelling, cybersecurity, AI/ML, and other fields. But how do quantum and classical computing compare with each other? Let's find out...

- Dr Dharmendra Patel

Quantum computing is a new and developing area of computer science that can solve problems that even the most potent classical computers cannot. Quantum hardware and quantum algorithms are two of the many disciplines that make up the field of quantum computing. Quantum technology is still in its infancy, but it will soon be able to solve complicated problems that supercomputers cannot or can't solve quickly enough.

The histories of classical and quantum computing are closely related. Physicists were among the first to use computers to carry out exacting calculations after early access to early modern computers, which were created in labs and universities all over the world. However, the limitations of classical computers were recognised by quantum physicists. According to the famous theorist Richard Feynman, classical computers, including supercomputers, could only be used to further quantum technologies to a certain degree because no classical system could be used to comprehend the behaviour of even slightly complex quantum systems.

The cutting-edge field of quantum computing uses the ideas of quantum mechanics to process data in ways that are essentially distinct from those of traditional, or classical, computing. Quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously, in contrast to classical computers that process information in binary form, representing data as either Os or 1s. This special property creates new computational opportunities by enabling quantum computers to complete some tasks tenfold faster than classical systems. Cryptography, material science, artificial intelligence, and complex optimisation are just a few of the domains that will be greatly impacted by quantum computing.

Key concepts in quantum computing