At the Tech.eu Summit in London, Dr. Ken Urquhart, Global Vice President of 5G/Edge/Satellite at Zscaler, and Steve Brierley, Founder and CEO of Riverlane, discussed The crucial intersection between artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and quantum computing. Moderated by Duygu Oktem Clark, Managing Partner at DO Venture Partners, the conference highlighted both the challenges and opportunities these technologies present.
AI and its limits in cybersecurity
Urquhart opened the discussion by addressing the limitations of AI in cybersecurity.
“AI as we apply it today involves algorithms that are interpretable and useful for cyber defense,” he said. However, he noted that current AI technologies, such as neural networks and large language models, pose challenges such as statistical variability and hallucinations, where AI “makes up things that may not be true.”
Urquhart explained that these statistical models could become less accurate over time, adding: “You have to think about how you apply AI because it can give less accurate answers if the same question is asked twice in a row over a period of hours or days.”
Potential and challenges of quantum computing
Brierley shared his thoughts on advances in quantum computing and its implications for cybersecurity. He noted that while current quantum computers are “extremely error-prone” and can only perform about 100 to 1,000 operations before failing, significant progress is being made in quantum error correction.
“Quantum error correction is a layer that sits on top of the physical qubits and corrects errors in real time,” Brierley explained.
This development is crucial to achieve cryptographically relevant quantum computing capabilities.
“2023 and 2024 were pivotal years because we crossed the threshold in various qubit modalities, making error correction viable,” he said. Brierley projected that in the next two to three years, we could see quantum computers performing up to a million operations, surpassing what classical computers can simulate.
Ethical and safety considerations
As artificial intelligence and quantum computing advance, ethical and security challenges arise. Urquhart stressed the importance of understanding the current limitations of artificial intelligence.
“We are on the path to artificial intelligence. It doesn’t think, it’s a collection of statistical results,” he said. Urquhart warned against over-reliance on AI for critical decisions, as its current form can lead to significant errors.
Brierley added that quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize industries, particularly in the simulation of molecular dynamics and chemical interactions.
“Quantum computers can replace time-consuming laboratory experiments with simulations, transforming sectors such as drug discovery and materials science,” he said.
Collaboration for a secure digital future
Both experts agreed on the need for collaboration between academia, industry and government to harness these technologies responsibly. Brierley stressed the importance of a coordinated effort, likening it to a “Manhattan-scale project” to build the world’s most powerful quantum computers. “We need effective collaboration across sectors to ensure that the technology benefits society,” he said.
Urquhart echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the role of commercial entities in promoting innovation and the role of government in setting the regulatory and financial environment.
“The machine is there, all we need now is the will to get started and make it work,” he noted.
The Future of Quantum and Cybersecurity
Looking ahead, both Urquhart and Brierley stressed the urgency of preparing for the impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity.
“Quantum computing will break most encryption at some point,” Urquhart warned, urging companies to act now to mitigate future risks.
Brierley concluded: “Quantum computers are not just faster computers; they represent a huge step forward in solving specific problems, and their potential, both for good and for ill, is immense.”
Participants highlighted the transformative potential of AI and quantum computing, while cautioning against complacency. As these technologies evolve, proactive collaboration and ethical considerations will be paramount to shaping a safe digital future.
Featured Image: Credit: Tech.eu
