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IBM’s Quantum 120-Qubit Breakthrough: Bitcoin’s Encryption At Risk? – October 2025

Author/Source: Scott Chipolina / Decrypt See the full link here

Takeaway

This article discusses IBM’s significant achievement in developing a 120-qubit quantum computer with improved “quantum volume.” While this represents a major step forward in quantum technology, the article clarifies that current quantum computers are still far from posing an immediate threat to the strong encryption used by digital systems like Bitcoin.

Technical Subject Understandability

Intermediate

Analogy/Comparison

Imagine a highly secure lock on a treasure chest, designed to be nearly impossible to open quickly. Our current computers are like very skilled locksmiths who try combinations one by one. A quantum computer, however, is a revolutionary new tool that could, in theory, test many combinations simultaneously. IBM has just unveiled a much more powerful version of this special tool, but it is not yet strong enough or precise enough to pick the chest’s lock swiftly, even with its impressive new capabilities.

Why It Matters

Understanding advancements in quantum computing is vital because it shapes the future of digital security for everyone. It helps us prepare for potential shifts in how we protect sensitive information online, from personal messages to financial transactions. For example, if quantum computers ever become capable of breaking current encryption methods, new security protocols would be needed to ensure that online banking, confidential government communications, and personal data remain safe from unauthorized access.

Related Terms

Qubit
Quantum Computing
Shor’s Algorithm
Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)
Quantum Volume
Bitcoin
Blockchain
Post-Quantum Cryptography

Jargon Conversion:
Qubit: The fundamental unit of information in a quantum computer, similar to a “bit” in a regular computer, but with the ability to exist in more complex states simultaneously.
Quantum Computing: A new type of computer that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to solve certain complex problems much faster than traditional computers.
Shor’s Algorithm: A specific set of instructions for a quantum computer that could theoretically break many common types of digital encryption very quickly.
Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC): A sophisticated mathematical method widely used to create very strong and secure digital locks for things like Bitcoin and secure online communications.
Quantum Volume: A measure of a quantum computer’s overall power and performance, taking into account both the number of its basic processing units and their quality.
Bitcoin: A decentralized digital currency that uses strong encryption to secure its transactions and manage its creation without a central authority.
Blockchain: The secure, shared, and unchangeable digital record-keeping technology that forms the foundation for Bitcoin and many other cryptocurrencies.
Post-Quantum Cryptography: New encryption methods currently being developed that are designed to remain secure even against highly powerful quantum computers.

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