Two team of boffins have independently set up quantum computers running proof of concept versions of an algorithm for factorisation.

The development poses a threat to the security of the cryptographic codes, based on public key cryptography, that protect ecommerce. Both teams used rudimentary laser-based quantum computers to implement Shor's algorithm, a mathematical process for factoring numbers. The difficulty of factoring the product of extremely long prime number is the mathematical principle used to underpin the security of cryptographic keys.

That's a bit like using the laser weapon from Diamonds are Forever to warm up a cup of tea but what establish that the boffins are on the right track. Quantum computers are firmly in the world of engineering possibility, although the process of building a viable machine is still a long way off. New Scientist carries a story of the research in its latest edition. A short summary is available here but the full low down is available to subscribers only. ®

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