Quantum computing is closer than you think - Federal News Network

INSIGHT BY IBM FEDERAL INSIGHTS Quantum computing is closer than you think Quantum computing has quietly advanced to a level of maturity and capability that many technologists, and policymakers, still underestimate. Federal News Network Staff January 8, 2026 12:40 pm           Quantum computing: From “someday” to now Quantum computing has quietly advanced to a level of maturity and capability that many technologists, and policymakers, still underestimate. Long dismissed as a “future” technology, quantum is already delivering value in select use cases today. “We’ve got real quantum computers,” said Scott Crowder, Vice President of Quantum Adoption at IBM Research. “We’ve come a long way in a very short period of time.” Just nine years ago, Crowder noted, there were no quantum developers and no way to write quantum software. “Since then, we’ve gone from five-qubit systems to machines capable of running programs too complex for the world’s largest supercomputers,” he said. While quantum computing is becoming more commercially available, it remains an emerging technology. The development curve, however, is accelerating thanks to ongoing improvements in qubit quality, system architecture, and software. Experts expect practical uses in the next five years, especially in medicine, energy, and materials science. Act now: Modernization and quantum-safe security Quantum computing will bring benefits before it becomes powerful enough to break today’s encryption – but that risk is coming. Future quantum computers could crack the cryptographic systems that protect government data. In fact, malicious actors can already steal encrypted data and wait until quantum technology makes it easy to unlock. That’s why agencies should include quantum-safe cryptography as part their modernization efforts. “There is risk today already for not changing your crypto standards,” Crowder warned. “Incorporating quantum considerations now ensures they become part of your IT strategy, not an afterthought.” Crowder’s advice: Make quantum-safe cryptography part of your modernization plans. Find out what encryption you use (your “crypto bill of materials”). Start switching to quantum-safe algorithms based on NIST standards. The bottom line Quantum computing is no longer just a theory, it’s real, it’s advancing fast, and it will change how we solve complex problems. For government agencies, the opportunity is huge, but so is the responsibility. Preparing now, by planning for quantum-safe security as part of modernization efforts, will ensure readiness for both the technology’s benefits and risks. Copyright © 2026 Federal News Network. All rights reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.           Sign up for breaking news. Related Stories AP Photo/Michael Wyke TSA employees at ‘breaking point’ GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN Read more AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein Veteran prosecutor confirmed to lead new Justice Department division targeting fraud nationwide PEOPLE Read more AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite Airport disruptions abound as senators chase deal to end Homeland Security budget standoff GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN Read more Related Topics ALL NEWS FEDERAL INSIGHTS IBM SCOTT CROWDER TECHNOLOGY UPCOMING EVENTS Federal News Network’s DoD Modernization Exchange 2026 Modernizing government ERP: Reducing risk while preparing for what’s next Federal Retirement Tax Planning and TSP Maximization How to get the most from your TSP as a federal employee [Live Q&A] Federal News Network’s CX Exchange 2026 More TOP STORIES VA restores AFGE labor contract, but isn’t implementing it, court documents show UNIONS 'Stressful, chaotic, never-ending:' DoD employees face mounting strain as Middle East conflict widens WORKFORCE Airport disruptions abound as senators chase deal to end Homeland Security budget standoff GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN Anthropic and Pentagon head to court as AI firm seeks end to 'stigmatizing' supply chain risk label ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Trump administration clouds up its push for AI in government ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Former immigration judges challenge MSPB decision on their terminations LITIGATION