In contrast, quantum computers use the qubit, short for "quantum bit." When advanced quantum computers are a reality, they will be able to break codes incomparably faster than currently possible. What would take trillions of years using ordinary computers would take a few seconds with a quantum computer. Unlike ordinary computers, in which it is easy to tell if a bit is on or off, in quantum computers, the qubits are very sensitive to their environment, especially heat. While many institutions are developing quantum computers, making a quantum internet requires a way to transfer the information between computers.

Source: CNN December 29, 2020 11:26 UTC