Quantum Cryptography vs Classical Cryptography
If you are reading this article, you likely have heard about quantum cryptography and classical cryptography, two cryptographic methods for securing communication channels. Although both methods follow similar principles, they differ in their approach, algorithm, and complexity. In this article, we will go through a factual and unbiased comparison between quantum cryptography and classical cryptography, especially concerning their implementation in space technology.
Classical Cryptography
Classical cryptography is an encryption technique developed in ancient times. This method is based on mathematical transformations that convert plaintext into cipher text using a secret key. The cipher text looks like gibberish to anyone who doesn't possess the key, making it difficult to comprehend the message.
One commonly used algorithm that falls into this category is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). AES uses a symmetric key, where only one copy of the key is needed to decipher the message. AES is a trusted encryption standard and has been adopted by several space agencies such as NASA and ESA to protect their sensitive data.
Quantum Cryptography
Unlike traditional cryptography, quantum cryptography uses quantum mechanics principles to encrypt information. Quantum cryptography can provide a secure method of communication over a public channel without a shared secret key. Quantum cryptography utilizes the quantum properties of matter to produce and distribute a secret key truly resistant to interception.
One popular quantum cryptography method is the BB84 protocol. It uses the polarization state of photons to create a unique key. However, the process can be quite challenging and requires specialized equipment to generate, transfer, and detect the key.
Comparison between quantum cryptography and classical cryptography
Level of Security
Classical cryptography uses a symmetric key that is only known to the sender and the receiver, making it susceptible to attacks from a hacker trying to intercept the message. In contrast, quantum cryptography utilizes the Heisenberg uncertainty principle that makes it almost impossible to intercept or copy a quantum bit without leaving visible traces, and thus ensuring an almost perfect level of security.
Complexity
While AES encryption is relatively easy to implement, quantum cryptography requires a more complex setup. In addition, quantum cryptography requires high-quality photon sources, single-photon detectors, and specialized labs to operate, making it a challenge to implement in certain environments such as space technology.
Processing Speed
Classical cryptography is faster at processing data compared to quantum cryptography. This is because quantum cryptography requires time to measure the qubits to reveal their properties, which may take several minutes. However, advancements have been made in reducing the processing time of quantum cryptography.
Conclusion
Both Quantum Cryptography and Classical Cryptography have their strengths and weaknesses. Classical cryptography is still the preferred communication method for most applications; it is simple and fast to carry out while providing an adequate level of security. Quantum cryptography, on the other hand, provides unparalleled security, and its relevance to space technology continues to increase as our reliance on space missions for global communication and data collection grow.
It’s not a matter of choosing one over the other. Instead, it’s about finding a balance between the strengths and weaknesses of classical and quantum cryptography when implementing space-based communication systems.
References
- Quantum Cryptography. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/quantum-cryptography/
- Classical Cryptography. https://www.britannica.com/topic/classical-cryptography
- The Future of Quantum Cryptography in Space. https://www.laserfocusworld.com/lasers-sources/article/16551815/the-future-of-quantum-cryptography-in-space